Written with both authority and accessibility, A History of War provides a fascinating overview of warfare and how it has shaped our world. From the Theban Wars of Ancient Greece to the modern wars of Iraq and Afghanistan, this comprehensive account explains the dark but compelling story of warfare. Two factors sit at the heart of this story: technology - including weapons, vehicle systems and vehicles and tactics. A History of War charts the rise of the army, explaining how primitive tribal war parties evolved through seasonal levies and feudal armies to professional standing armies and mass conscription forces, with formal organizational structures. Includes: - The Punic Wars- The War of Independence- World Wars 1 & 2- The Cold War- The Vietnam War Illustrated with art, maps and photographs, this book provides summaries and insights into these conflicts while recognizing the human drama of conflict, with first-hand insight into the experience of combat, either as a combatant or as a civilian swept up in violent times.