Tucker, Spencer C. Wars that Changed History

50 of the World's Greatest Conflicts

A thorough examination of significant wars throughout history and their influence on world events from the campaigns of the Egyptian pharaoh Thutmose III between 479 and 459 BC to the Iraq War from 2003 to 2011. For centuries, wars have played a decisive role in history and determined the rise and fall of civilisations. Many believe that understanding the causes and consequences of wars can bring humanity closer to world peace. This selection of the 50 most significant wars, compiled by military historian Spencer C. Tucker, presents each conflict in chronological order and discusses its causes, course and significance for world history. Through insightful essays and vivid evidence, this reference work examines the weapon systems used and their impact on the battlefield, the role of individual leaders such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Abraham Lincoln and Adolf Hitler, and the influence of geography and economics on the course of war. The work contains fascinating information about warfare and covers topics such as how transport and logistics have changed the face of war over time, which invention marked the rise of infantry over cavalry, why the First World War remains the most important war of the 20th century, and which war killed almost half of Germany's population. Each essay contains the latest interpretations of the strategy, objectives and consequences of the event in question.