Understanding the Etymology and Evolution of the Term 'General Commander'

The term 'general commander' has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries and is deeply intertwined with the evolution of military structures and leadership hierarchies. In this article, we will explore the origins and development of this title, its usage in modern times, and its significance in military and civilian leadership structures.

The Etymology of 'General Commander'

The term 'general' is derived from the Latin word generalis, meaning 'inclusive' or 'comprehensive'. This adjective was affixed to various officer designations in the late medieval period to indicate superiority or jurisdiction over a broader or more extensive area. The term 'general commander' as we know it today originated in the 16th century, taking its roots from the shortened version of 'captain general' in Middle French.

The Historical Evolution

In early medieval kings' armies, the largest military units were led by a captain, a term which means 'head person' or 'chief'. This captain was typically assisted by a lieutenant, who would step in if the captain became incapacitated or away. As armies grew in size, the role of the captain general emerged. This individual was the overarching commander, with a lieutenant general serving as his sidekick, responsible for taking over if necessary.

The Modern Meaning of 'General'

Historically, 'general' referred to a leader in charge of everything, but modern military ranks such as brigadier generals, colonel generals, and army generals do not follow the older pattern precisely. Instead, they represent a direct evolution from these earlier titles.

The Modern Ranks

Modern military leaders with the title 'general' are not simply titled 'general commander' but have specific designations such as 'sergeant major general', 'lieutenant general', and 'major general'. These ranks reflect a more specialized division of labor within the military hierarchy. Sergeant major general, for example, is a staff officer who oversees non-combat personnel and logistics. Lieutenant general is often a division or corps commander responsible for large combat operations. Major general can hold various senior positions, often focusing on specific functions or leading large units.

General Officer in Action

A classic example of a general taking on a multifaceted role is MG Leslie Groves. During World War II, he first oversaw the design and construction of the Pentagon and then led the Manhattan Project to develop the first atomic bombs. Groves, an engineer by profession, demonstrated the adaptability and leadership skills expected of modern generals. Today, most general officers are specialized in specific areas such as combat arms, logistics, and procurement, ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to lead their respective units effectively.

The Integrity of the Team

At the highest levels of command, generals are often carefully chosen and selected. At the 4-star level, the selection process is rigorous and involves the nomination by each service chief and final selection by the Secretary of Defense (SECDEF) and the President, with consent from the Senate. This ensures a high caliber of leadership and a well-rounded team with diverse expertise.

General Ranks in Modern Context

Additional ranks such as attorney generals, solicitor generals, postmaster generals, and surgeon generals share the term 'general' because they are in charge of overall matters in their respective domains. This usage of 'general' in a broad sense underscores the concept of leadership and oversight, much like its military counterpart.

Colonel General: An Unusual Case

Interestingly, the term 'colonel general' seems to have emerged as an accident of the German language. The German term oberst means 'highest', and when translated, it resulted in the term 'colonel general', which in reality should be 'highest general officer'. This historical quirk illustrates how language can shape the understanding and usage of military titles.

In conclusion, the term 'general commander' represents a long and rich history of military leadership, reflecting the evolution of command structures and the diverse roles of leaders in maintaining order, overseeing operations, and ensuring the success of military missions. As we continue to navigate the complex landscape of modern warfare and leadership, the term 'general commander' remains a powerful symbol of comprehensive and all-encompassing authority.