Command and Initiative in North Africa: Patton VS. Fredendall, and the Battle of Kasserine Pass

Abstract

This thesis will compare and contrast General George S. Patton, Jr. and General Lloyd R. Fredendall throughout their service during the North African Campaign to argue that, had Patton commanded at Kasserine Pass, the battle would have ended as an American victory. Using Martin Blumenson's edited version of the Patton Papers, this study will pull examples from Patton's experience as a leader to decipher the possibilities of his command at Kasserine Pass. Three overall ideas will be covered: Patton's command style, Fredendall's leadership and failure at Kasserine Pass, and the consequences of General Dwight D. Eisenhower's decisions as supreme commander. The analysis of these points will enforce the theory that, had Patton commanded at Kasserine Pass, the outcome would have been a victory instead of a failure.