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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Delve into the Deadly, Insurmountable Odds of Custer’s Last Stand

This unexpected U.S. defeat was the most significant action of the Great Sioux War of 1876.

In 1708, the Spanish Galleon San José Sank—And So Did Its Treasure

Somewhere off the coast of Colombia, a treasure worth billions lies on the ocean floor.

This Civil War Amputee Led the First Expedition Through the Grand Canyon

Learn about the eventful life of John Wesley Powell—professor, Civil War veteran, and explorer of the American West. 

The Mysterious Execution of Mussolini

As his dictatorship came crumbling down, he was captured while trying to flee the country.

8 Books About the Dark Ages

Learn more about this mysterious period of history.

Why the Air Force Bombed Montana During World War II

They were actually coming to a small town's rescue.

How the Red Army Used Camels to Fight the Nazis

The animals were transported all the way to the Soviet Union, where they performed critical duties.

What Do We Actually Know About Area 51?

The Air Force base has been the subject of numerous conspiracies over the years.

Discover 9 Books by Acclaimed Author Mark Bowden

His accounts delve into moments that redefined America.

King Philip’s War Set the Stage for the American Revolution

This early conflict between colonists and Native Americans had unexpected consequences.

Teddy Roosevelt's Legendary Rough Riders

This cavalry regiment was celebrated for its role in the Spanish-American War.

Battle of Midway: The Nimitz Plan That Failed

An unexpected development required quick thinking.