Who was the greater general, Russia's Zhukov or Germany's Von Manstein? Why?

Evaluating who was the greater general between Georgy Zhukov and Erich von Manstein is a complex task, as it depends on various factors such as the context of their battles, the resources they had, and the ultimate outcomes of the war. Here are some key points to consider:

Strategic Achievements and Impact on the War

Erich von Manstein

• Von Manstein is often praised for his innovative and decisive strategies. His plan for the invasion of France, known as the "Sichelschnitt" or "sickle cut," was instrumental in the rapid defeat of France in 19405.
• He achieved significant victories on the Eastern Front, particularly the Third Battle of Kharkov, where he regained substantial territory and destroyed several Soviet armies despite being outnumbered15.
• He also led successful operations in the Crimea, including the capture of Sevastopol, and was involved in other key battles such as the Battle of the Kerch Peninsula and the siege of Leningrad125.

Georgy Zhukov

• Zhukov's defensive strategies were crucial in saving Moscow during the winter of 1941-1942, which was a turning point in the war on the Eastern Front1.
• He played a pivotal role in several major Soviet victories, including the Battle of Stalingrad, the Battle of Kursk, and the final push to Berlin. His leadership was instrumental in the Soviet Union's ultimate victory over Germany24.
• Zhukov's ability to coordinate large-scale operations and his persistence in the face of adversity were key factors in the Soviet Union's success.

Context and Resources

Erich von Manstein

• Manstein often operated with limited resources and had to contend with Hitler's interference in military strategy, which sometimes hindered his effectiveness5.
• Despite his tactical genius, Manstein's successes were ultimately overshadowed by the broader strategic failures of the German military and the political decisions made by Hitler3.

Georgy Zhukov

• Zhukov had the advantage of vast Soviet resources and manpower, which he utilized effectively in large-scale operations.
• He also benefited from the Soviet Union's ability to mobilize its industrial base and population to support the war effort.

Ultimate Outcomes

• Zhukov's Contributions to Victory: Zhukov's victories were more decisive in the long run, contributing directly to the defeat of Nazi Germany. His leadership in battles like Stalingrad, Kursk, and the final assault on Berlin were pivotal in the Allied victory24.
• Manstein's Tactical Brilliance but Strategic Limitations: While Manstein was a master tactician with several significant victories, his efforts were ultimately part of a larger German strategy that failed. His disagreements with Hitler and the constraints imposed by Hitler's decisions limited his ability to influence the overall course of the war35.

Conclusion

While both generals were highly skilled and influential, the broader context and ultimate outcomes of the war suggest that Georgy Zhukov might be considered the greater general. Zhukov's strategic leadership and ability to secure decisive victories that contributed to the Allied win are significant factors. Manstein's tactical brilliance and innovative strategies, though impressive, were ultimately constrained by the larger strategic failures of the German military and the political environment in which he operated. Zhukov's impact on the war's outcome was more profound and lasting.