British Major General Edward Braddock, who served during the French and Indian War (1754-1763), favored a traditional style of warfare that was characteristic of European conflicts of the time. This "old school" approach included several key elements:
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Linear Tactics: Braddock preferred the use of formal lines of soldiers, engaging in pitched battles where troops would face each other in organized formations.
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Heavy Use of Infantry and Cavalry: His strategies heavily relied on the use of regular infantry units and cavalry, with an emphasis on discipline and formation.
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Siege Warfare: Braddock was trained in the principles of siege warfare, which was a common tactic in European conflicts, involving encircling and bombarding enemy fortifications.
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Conventional Army Structure: He believed in maintaining a conventional army structure with regular British troops, rather than utilizing irregular forces or native allies, which was often more effective in the North American theater.
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Direct Engagement: Braddock's methods involved direct and frontal assaults against enemy positions rather than employing guerrilla tactics, which were often employed by the forest-dwelling Native American allies of the French.
This rigid approach ultimately contributed to the challenges he faced in North America, culminating in his defeat at the Battle of the Monongahela in 1755, where his forces were ambushed by French and Native American troops using unconventional tactics.