The Encyclopedia of Warfare Book

Mankind is not a peaceful species. Throughout human history violent conflict has been central to our way of life. Somewhere, somehow, and at some time or other, some form of conflict is taking place, whether on a small or a large scale. Many have sought to attribute this to a weakness of human nature, arguing that we are intrinsically violent animals, while others have explained warfare as an inevitable consequence of the emergence of organized societies and civilizations. Whatever the reasons, it is clear that in order to have a true understanding of our history, we must have a knowledge of war.

With its in-depth look at the part war has plated in our history, The Encyclopedia of Warfare gives you that knowledge. Written by a team of eminent military historians, it covers all the significant armed conflicts from 1482 B.C. right up to the present day.

The book is organized chronologically, starting with a chapter examining the first military empires and ending with a chapter covering modern-day warfare. Between these start and end points, there are chapters covering the whole history of human conflict, including the might of Rome, medieval warfare, and the birth of modern warfare. There are also chapters covering the major changes to warfare brought about by the development of gunpowder and the industrial revolution, as well as individual chapters looking at both World War I and World War II.

Throughout the book you can follow a timeline charting all the major wars and battles fought in the last 3,500 years. All the important details are provided, along with dates and maps of the battle scenes.

Written in an authoritative yet readable style, The Encyclopedia of Warfare is a comprehensive guide to the history of armed conflict.