In ancient wars, the storage and transportation of provisions have always been the key factors determining the outcome of the war. As the saying goes, "The troops do not move until the provisions are ready", which sufficiently illustrates the importance of provisions in war. This article will explore the significance of provisions in ancient warfare and their impact on the overall military situation.

I. The Importance of Provisions in Warfare

1. Maintaining the Combat Effectiveness of the Troops: The army needs sufficient food to ensure the soldiers' physical strength and morale. Lack of food can lead to exhaustion, low morale, and even mutiny among soldiers. Therefore, the adequacy of provisions is directly related to the combat effectiveness of the army.

2. Supporting the Continuation of Warfare: Warfare often requires prolonged combat, and the storage and transportation capabilities of provisions determine whether the war can continue. Insufficient provisions may lead to the inability to continue the war or even being forced to sign unequal treaties.

3. Influencing Strategic Deployment: The storage and transportation capabilities of provisions can affect the strategic deployment of the commander, such as choosing suitable battlefields and adjusting marching routes. Without sufficient provisions, even the best strategies cannot be implemented.

II. The Impact of Provisions on the Military Situation in Ancient Wars

1. The Advantage of Provisions Brings Initiative in the Military Situation: In ancient wars, the side with the advantage of provisions often had the initiative in the military situation. For example, during the Shu Han period, Zhuge Liang successfully conducted multiple northern expeditions through sufficient provisions.

2. Shortage of Provisions Leading to Defeat: Many wars were lost due to a shortage of provisions. For instance, in the Battle of Red Cliff, Cao Cao ultimately suffered a defeat due to insufficient provisions.

3. The Provisions Supply Line Becomes a Target of Attack: In ancient wars, cutting off the enemy's provisions supply line was an important tactical means. By disrupting the enemy's provisions supply, it could force the enemy army into a dilemma and even surrender without a battle.

III. How to Ensure the Supply of Provisions in Ancient Times

1. Establishing Grain Warehouses and Storing Food: Ancient countries would establish grain warehouses in important regions and store large amounts of food for unexpected needs. For example, the Zhengguo Canal built during the Qin Dynasty was a water conservancy project aimed at increasing food production.

2. Developing Transportation: To ensure that provisions can be smoothly transported to the front, ancient countries would vigorously develop transportation facilities, such as building roads and digging canals.

3. Adopting Various Tactical Means: In wars, commanders would adopt different tactical means based on the provisions situation of both sides, such as quickly deciding the battle or besieging cities.

Conclusion:

Provisions played a pivotal role in ancient wars, not only affecting the combat effectiveness and morale of the army but also directly influencing the continuation of the war and strategic deployment. Therefore, ancient rulers and military strategists attached great importance to the storage and transportation of provisions. In wars, the side with the advantage of provisions often had the initiative in the military situation, thereby achieving the final victory.

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