Final answer:
The right or left edge of an army formation is called a 'flank', and maneuvering around it rather than attacking directly from the front is known as a flanking maneuver.
Step-by-step explanation:
In military strategy, flanking is attacking the opponent from the side. It's effective because the enemy's strength is usually concentrated at the front.
Maneuvering around the side of an army, instead of attacking directly from the front, is known as a flanking maneuver. This strategy involves attacking the sides, which are generally less fortified, to gain a tactical advantage over the enemy.
Historical battles often demonstrated the effectiveness of flanking maneuvers, which if successful, can lead to enveloping the enemy forces or cutting off their line of retreat.
A well-known military strategy includes trying the opponent's flanks, as exemplified during various Civil War battles where the Union troops tested their adversary's flanks before considering a direct assault.