Cliodynamics

The paper aims to suggest Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), as a preliminary tool of military efficiency. This approach examines battles as a decision-making unit (DMU) characterized by multiple inputs and outputs. Data: Data are measurable indicators such as battles won, territorial expansion, casualties, and historical impact. By assigning quantitative values, the study facilitates cross-temporal comparisons of military effectiveness. Analysis: The strategic performance of Alexander the Great at the Battle of Granicus River (334 BCE) serves as a primary case study of DEA employment. The scope of analysis extends to a range of historically significant conflicts, from the Trojan War to World War II to compare with and be used as benchmarks. Results: The study demonstrates the practical utility of quantifying historical events into a single comparable metric, facilitating clearer comparisons across diverse battles ranked from highest to lowest values.