Discover the key themes and big ideas behind the key events in the history of warfare--from the dawn of civilization to the 21st century. Tracing the epic 5,000-year story of warfare from the earliest battles to the War on Terror, The Military History Book explores and explains the causes and consequences of each, offering a new angle on military history. Entries analyze the key social and political driving forces, the arms and armaments, and the technologies and tactics of war from 5,000 years ago to the present day--from the tactics of early infantry and siegecraft to the rise of naval combat steel, steam, and shellfire to trench warfare and aerial dogfights to chemical weapons and cyber warfare. Making each episode accessible and easy to understand, and bringing military history to life like never before, with stunning visuals, authoritative text, and memorable quotes, The Military History Book is the perfect gift for military enthusiasts of all ages.