James B. Stockdale papers

About

James B. Stockdale papers

ADM James Bond Stockdale had a profound impact on the U.S. Naval War College through his leadership, philosophical contributions, and his influence on the curriculum focusing on ethics and philosophy.

Stockdale is best remembered for his exemplary courage and leadership during the Vietnam War, particularly his time as a prisoner of war, which has been integrated into the College's teachings on ethics and leadership. His experience and the ethical dilemmas he faced during captivity underpin the military ethics course he established, Foundations of Moral Obligation, otherwise known as “The Stockdale Course,” which has been taught at NWC for over 40 years.

The Naval War College Archives contain the James B. Stockdale Papers, which cover the years 1965 to 2005. This collection spans 4.20 linear feet and includes various documents that reflect his military service, philosophy, and educational impact. These papers are an essential resource for researchers studying his influence and legacy at the College and beyond​​.

Works

Draft of editorial

Draft of editorial

A draft of an editoral Stockale wrote about resigned from the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. Stockdale sent this draft to Joseph Brennan.

3 pages: 100% complete (100% transcribed)
Lecture notes: Foundations of Moral Obligation, 1978-1978

Lecture notes: Foundations of Moral Obligation, 1978-1978

These notes are described by Stockdale as his "first time through" lecture drafts.

152 pages: 100% complete (100% transcribed)
Lecture notes: Foundations of Moral Obligation, 1978-1979

Lecture notes: Foundations of Moral Obligation, 1978-1979

Stockdales lecture notes, "second time through."

229 pages: 100% complete (100% transcribed)
Letter from James B. Stockdale to Henry Kissinger, 1978 Mar 10

Letter from James B. Stockdale to Henry Kissinger, 1978 Mar 10

4 pages: 100% complete (100% transcribed)
Letter from James B. Stockdale to Henry Kissinger, 1978 Mar 17

Letter from James B. Stockdale to Henry Kissinger, 1978 Mar 17

2 pages: 100% complete (100% transcribed)
Displaying works 1 - 10 of 34 in total

Incomplete Works