From the first English settlements in North America to the present, the US military has evolved from poorly trained militia formations into the world's most powerful professional military establishment. During that time the nation has fought almost every type of war, from guerilla engagements to global conflicts. In many ways the US military reflects the society from which it evolved; in more recent years, especially, the military has also had an impact on civilian society. Understanding the history of America's wars and its military establishment can help us to understand ourselves and our...