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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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.

Day of Infamy: Inside the Destruction of the Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor

Historian Walter Lord recounts the bombing of major U.S. battleships and the heroics of the men on board.

The Women Who Volunteered to Make Doughnuts on the Front Lines of World War I

The Doughnut Girls of World War I delivered a taste of home when it was needed most, boosting morale and the popularity of the Salvation Army.

Visiting Pripyat, Chernobyl's Frozen Ghost Town

Then and now, Pripyat's eerie charms call out to visitors from around the world.

American Traitors: The Best Friends Who Sold Secrets to Soviet Russia

Meet two hard-partying geniuses that became Cold War operatives.

Women in World War II Were Even Braver Than You Realize

While their men fought on the front lines, women fought their own battle at home and in the workforce—and helped bring the Allied Powers to victory.

Why This Civil War Vet Marched Across England With the U.S. Flag

Gilbert Bates toured the South and England on foot in Union uniform, flag in hand.

Hal Moore: Soldier, Veteran, Author

Lieutenant General Hal Moore left behind the legacy of a brave soul and a kind heart.

[CLOSED] Discover an Untold Story of the Holocaust

20 winners will receive a copy of 999: The Extraordinary Young Women of the First Jewish Transport to Auschwitz.

10 Must-Read Cold War Books

30 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, look back at the conflict that defined a generation.