The Devastating Power of Ancient Roman Sieges
Tactically, the purpose of a siege is almost always the same – to take control of a strongly defended position. The reasons for launching one…
Last Man Standing – The Lone German Soldier Who Held Off A Whole Wave Of Russian Infantry and Tanks
Part of Hitler’s appeal to the German people was his ability to flatter them. According to him, Germans were Ubermensch (superhuman) and therefore had the right…
A Day In The Life Of A Roman Legionary
Roman legionaries were among the most ruthlessly efficient soldiers in the ancient world. But even for these highly disciplined and well-equipped men, the armies that…
The Ulster Division at Schwaben Redoubt: How Too Much Success Led to Terrible Loss
The Battle of the Somme, launched by the Allies against German lines on July 1, 1916, was an extraordinary offensive. A huge mass of troops…
Fire In Warfare: Seven Devastating Incendiary Weapons From Military History
Fire has played a devastating part in the history of war. Even when not weaponized, it could be unleashed during pillaging of towns, leading to…
World War Two – Three of Germany’s Top StuG Aces
War History online proudly presents this Guest Piece from Evan Pinter. With the ongoing popularity of games (most notably World of Tanks), movies and books about…
A Fatal Failing Of Intelligent Leadership in the Vietnam War – The Battle Of Lima Site 85
There is a remote mountaintop in north-eastern Laos called Phou Phathi, and the locals said it was a place where phi, or spirits, lived. By…
The 1st Duke of Marlborough: Maybe The Biggest Ego In Military History
The Duke of Marlborough has a reputation as one of the greatest commanders in British and even world history. A son of minor gentry he…
Nine Things the Movie ‘Braveheart’ Got Wrong… And One Thing It Got Right
Mel Gibson’s film Braveheart is both one of the most celebrated and one of the most reviled pieces of historical filmmaking ever. A heart-stirring and…
Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty – The Priest who Converted an SS Commander
He was a man of many faces who used his talent at disguise to help thousands of people escape from the Nazis. Hunted by them,…
The Kingmaker – Seven Family Members Napoleon Used to Assert His Power
Like many rulers throughout history, Napoleon made use of his family. He discussed issues with them, and they were supporters and strategic assets in his political…
Ivan Pavlovich Sereda: the USSR’s Heroic Cook in World War Two
Militaries are hierarchical and, despite their low status, cooks play a vital role. Besides feeding troops, they also maintain morale which has a significant impact…