The readings collected in this text offer a historical survey of the evolution of western warfare over nearly five centuries -- adapted from the foreword.

"This is an interim text intended solely for the instruction of cadets at USMA."

The beginning of modern warfare --Early developments in naval warfare -- Gustavus Adolphus and the Swedish renaissance -- The Sun King and the Lord Protector -- Marlborough and Eugene -- The decline of France -- Prussia's rise to power -- The soldier king.