It is hoped that this volume will provide a basic refrence work that is particularly useful for students beginning their in-depth study of the history of the Military Art. -- Foreword.

" ... An interim text intended solely for the instruction of cadets at USMA."

Fundamental concepts in the language of the military profession -- From the ancients to the gunpower revolution -- Gunpower, renaissance and reason -- The age of Napoleon -- From Napoleon through the American Civil War -- To the Great War, the European War, the First World War -- From the Great War to a Greater War, the Second World War -- The age of the Cold, the Korean, and the People's Wars -- Toward more perfect understanding.