Description
Book SynopsisThis is a new edition of Geoffrey Parker's much-admired illustrated account of how the West, so small and so deficient in natural resources in 1500, had by 1800 come to control over one-third of the world. Parker argues that the rapid development of military practice in the West constituted a 'military revolution' which gave Westerners an insurmountable advantage over the peoples of other continents. This edition incorporates new material, including a substantial 'Afterword' which summarises the debate which developed after the book's first publication.
Trade ReviewFrom reviews of the first edition (1988): '… a work of superb scholarship … a brisk and engaging account that illuminates virtually every aspect of warfare in this watershed period.' Gordon A. Craig, New York Review of Books
'… a succinct but dense study with the rare distinction of being packed with information, rich in argument, and yet well organized and clear.' John Childs, The Times Literary Supplement
'... a major work of military historiography which will influence the outlook of Professor Parker's fellow practitioners for years to come.' John Keegan, The Daily Telegraph
'Parker's Military Revolution has produced the most sophisticated debate in the entire field of military history.' John Lynn
Table of ContentsList of illustrations; Acknowledgements; Introduction; 1. The military revolution revisited; 2. Supplying war; 3. Victory at sea; 4. The 'military revolution' abroad; 5. Beyond the revolution; Afterword; Notes; Bibliographical guide; Index.
