You can't study European history without considering war, for the effects of conflict pervade all levels of society. Whereas some books concentrate on particular battles, the field of military history often concentrates on warfare itself: the changing weapons, the evolving tactics and the organisation of armies. Consequently, these are my top ten books on European warfare in general.
This truly excellent book presents eight essays, each concerning a different conflict, or a different aspect of warfare, during the modern period. A companion volume covering the years 1450 - 1815 is also available, and both books consider social and political issues alongside purely military developments, making the volumes of interest to a broader audience.
Having selected a volume edited by Jeremy Black, I've now included one written by him. A Military Revolution? examines military developments between the mid-sixteenth to mid-seventeenth centuries, challenging the popular notion that a revolution in warfare took place during the period. Black's arguments, which include political and economic analyses, are persuasive.
Recently reissued with a new section covering the debate that resulted from the first edition, Parker's work argues that a revolution occurred in the European style of warfare between 1500 and 1800, leading to a partial domination of the globe. As well as being an interesting read in its own right, it can be combined with pick 3 for extra contrast.
Ignore the slightly grim cover (not one for children), and you'll find this text a superb introduction to European styles of war over the past millennia. Social, political and cultural information is included alongside the more traditional developments in weaponry and army size.
Students may dislike the free-flowing structure of this book, but most people should find it an excellent examination of warfare in nineteenth century Europe. The volume has a few surprises - one chapter is devoted to what we now call the US civil war - and the text focuses on broader issues, as well as the economic, social and cultural effects of war, instead of specific battles.
The early modern period saw the development of Europe's great standing armies and a reduction in the individual ownership of troops. This book covers the changing relationship between war, state, armies and government, using Spain, Sweden and the Dutch Republic as extended case studies.
Naval warfare has attracted a hardcore of devotees, but many people are unaware of the vital impact sea battles have had. Glete's text covers developments in ships and cannons, as well as the lives of seaman, in a discussion which includes all the major seafaring nations of Europe.
Walking the fine line between introducing students to material and interesting well-read academics, Duffy's book is suitable for all readers. Covering what is, arguably, the most creative period of defence and sieges, the author combines fascinating technical detail - and examples - with the architectural, economic, political and symbolic importance of the early modern 'fortress'.
Don't be deceived by the size of this slim volume, for the content is a marvelous rumination - by an eminent historian - on the nature, and possible modern understanding, of the notion that is 'peace'. This is a work of broad concepts rather than single moments from the past, but required reading for all those interested in current larger world, as well as broad historical, affairs.
Most history books concentrate on just the battles, but any General who does the same will encounter great peril. Supplying War deals with the behind the scenes aspects of warfare: supplies, movement and administration. Although reviews like to claim this is easy reading for non-logistician, you do need a certain interest in the topic, but the insights are invaluable and the examples enlightening.
