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Military History Articles

There’s no way around it; history has been shaped by the outcome of innumerable wars and battles fought over everything from religion to territorial disputes to outright revenge over a perceived injustice. Learning about these conflicts is vital to understanding the world we live in today.

Our military coverage spans the ancient world through the Cold War. Discover epic medieval clashes, or fierce battles that caused entire ancient civilizations to crumble. Examine the political intricacies of sprawling conflicts like the Seven Years’ War or the War of Spanish Succession. Explore the devastation of the World Wars, or the fresh conflicts they left in their wake.

There’s also the fascinating evolution of weapons from the Stone Age through the nuclear arms race, as well as the changing military theories and strategies (or lack thereof) powering key decisions. Or you can discover a unique study of how contagious diseases have impacted the outcome of every war in America’s history, from skirmishes with Native Americans to 20th-century biological warfare. 

True stories about the people who fought these conflicts put a human face to the cost of war. You can learn about the Soviet Union’s Night Witches (an all-female regiment of fighter pilots), discover the Mapuche people’s centuries-long military resistance against the Spanish conquistadors, or read war books written by those who were actually there. Whatever draws you into military history, we’re exploring every angle of the conflicts that caused empires to rise and fall, reshaping our world in the process.

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Fact or Fantasy: All About Female Samurai Warrior Tomoe Gozen

Can you tell the difference between historical Japanese legend and creative fantasy fiction?

TRAILER: The Next Great WWII Movie is Coming

Greyhound, written by and starring Tom Hanks, is coming this June.

10 War Books That Enlighten, Move, and Educate Their Readers

These books examine the burdens of battle, from the Revolutionary War to modern day Iraq.

4 Union Generals That Were Better Than the Famous Ones

These hardworking generals outperformed the showboats at every turn.

This Former Slave Became The First African American West Point Grad

Henry Flipper, born a slave, beat astonishing odds and overcame classmates' racism to become the first black graduate in 1877.

How the 3rd 395th Battalion's Last Stand Helped Win the Battle of the Bulge

Although outnumbered five-to-one, this battalion held their ground and killed more than 4,000 opposing German soldiers.

How Western Union Helped The U.S. Enter World War I

An intercepted telegram provided a reason for President Wilson to join the effort.

The 5 Stupidest Losses Of The American Civil War

Confederates and Union troops alike made flawed decisions with fatal consequences.

Valley Forge: The Bootcamp That Turned Around the American Revolution

The Continental Army rose from winter devastation to become a force to be reckoned with.

A Single Viking's Berserker Rage Changed World History Forever

His combative stance was the final stand of the Viking Age—and allowed the Norman invasion its foothold.

Why Ancient Romans Built Statues Of Their Greatest Enemy

The statues were a sign of honor for their enemy and a symbol of the strength of the empire.

Revolutionary War Battles: The Key Conflicts

Join the scene of the Revolutionary War's most important battles, from embarrassing defeats to shocking underdog victories.

This Is Why Washington Wasn't Relentlessly Attacked By The Confederates

Natural barricades, manmade obstacles, and heavy reinforcements kept the capital safe.

10 Illuminating Books About Ancient Greece

Gain insight into the civilization that sculpted today's society.

Pierre Le Gloan: The Ace WWII Fighter Who Fought for Both Sides

The extraordinary flier's strange tale fascinates, decades later.

Alvin York Was One of WWI’s Most Decorated Soldiers

This man went from an unwilling, pacifist draftee to Sergeant York, military hero and legend.

Why the Kentucky Militia Was Most Feared by America's Enemies

During the War of 1812, no one wanted to come face-to-face with the Kentuckians.