War has declined dramatically over the last few decades. This has caused many of us to forget what an important part of human history that war has been. Particularly for Agricultural societies, war was one of the key means for a people (or more accurately their elites) to attain greater resources and wealth. War has also been a driver in innovation of technologies and institutions. It has also spread cultures far beyond their original borders.

I recommend that you read these book summaries in the following order:

1. “War in World History (Vol 1)” by Morillo, Black and Lococo
2. “War in World History (Vol 2)” by Morillo, Black and Lococo
3. “Conquests and Cultures” by Thomas Sowell
4. “The Pursuit of Power” by William McNeill
5. “War: What is It Good for?” by Ian Morris
6. “A History of Warfare” by John Keegan
7. “Ultrasociety: How 10,000 Years of War Made Humans the Greatest Cooperators…” by Peter Turchin
8. “Military Revolution and Political Change” by Brian Downing
9. “The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers” by Paul Kennedy
10. “The Tragedy of Great Power Politics” by John Mearsheimer

If there is a book that you find particularly interesting, please support the author by buying the book.