The Oxford History of Modern War

According to General J.F.C. Fuller, “the musket made the infantryman and the infantryman made the democrat.” In short, modern war and modern society are inextricably linked. But how has war changed over the centuries? This highly informative and engaging work investigates the techniques, technology, and theory of warfare. From the military revolution of the seventeenth century to the present day battalion of high-tech weaponry and satellite technology, expert contributors explore major developments and themes, including air and sea warfare, combat experience, technology, and opposition to war. Specific topics include the extraordinary achievements of Napoleon’s armies, the role of nationalism in battlegrounds, colonial wars, and the concept of “total war.” One thought-provoking essay points out that today’s armies face an range of low-intensity conflicts–from civil protests to domestic terrorism–that can not be won by any purely military approach. As a result, the military professionalism that evolved to foster modern war is beginning to erode. Highlighting a wide range of information with expert insights and historical analysis, The Oxford History of Modern War leaves no aspect of modern warfare unexplored. This volume will fascinate everyone from casual readers and history buffs, to scholars, political thinkers, and historians.