Final answer:
A flanking maneuver is the tactical movement of troops around the side of an enemy's formation rather than a frontal attack. It is aimed at surprising the enemy and exploiting their weak points, often requiring careful planning and knowledge of terrain and enemy dispositions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The movement of troops for a specific purpose or to gain an advantage, such as maneuvering around the side of an army instead of attacking directly from the front, is called a flanking maneuver. This tactic involves attacking the sides, or the flank, of an enemy's formation. This method of attack can be advantageous because it allows the attacking force to potentially catch the enemy off guard and can create opportunities to exploit weaknesses in the enemy's positioning or strategy.
A flanking maneuver is considered a typical example of tactical maneuvering, which can involve variations in approach and often requires in-depth knowledge of both the terrain and the enemy's dispositions. As mentioned in historical contexts, such as the capture of Vicksburg by Grant, success in such maneuvers requires precision, planning, and the element of surprise. In broader military strategy, troops may also be deployed in specific formations or locations as part of a strategic deployment designed to achieve long-term goals or desired outcomes in a conflict.