text: Foundations of Counterinsurgency
  Section II—HISTORICAL THEORIES
  This section compares three historic theories of counterinsurgency. Together, they provide a reference
  for forces engaged in COIN operations. COIN operations are complicated. Even considering these theories will
  not guarantee success. However, understanding these aspects will help illuminate the challenges inherent
  in defeating an insurgency. Three counterinsurgency experts, Robert Thompson, David Galula and Charles
  Callwell, had very specific theories concerning the conduct of counterinsurgency based on their experience.
  Figure 3-3. Rheostat approach to the lines of effort.
  ROBERT THOMPSON'S PRINCIPLES FOR SUCCESSFUL COIN
  3-41. Robert Thompson’s Five Principles for Successful Counterinsurgency based on his experience in
  the Malayan emergency follow:
  • The need for government to have a clear political aim.
  • To function within the law.
  • To establish an overall plan, whereby all political, socio-economic and military responses were
  coordinated.
  • To give priority to the elimination of political subversion.
  • To secure the government’s base area before conducting a military campaign.
  DAVID GALULA’S FOUR LAWS FOR SUCCESSFUL COIN
  3-42. David Galula’s Four Laws for Successful Counterinsurgency based on his experience
  in Indochina and Algeria follow:
  • The support of the population is necessary for the counterinsurgent as it is the insurgent.
  • Support is gained through the active minority.