Alfred von Tirpitz
Built the German High Seas Fleet on the risk theory: a navy need not beat the Royal Navy, only be costly enough to deter it. The theory failed in both directions — it did not deter Britain, and it drove her into ententes with France and Russia. The fleet fought one general action and spent the war in harbour.
- Lived: 1849 CE – 1930 CE
- Nationality: german
- Roles: admiral, statesman