Each book studies the origins, politics, fighting and repercussions of one major war or theatre of war, from both military and civilian perspectives. Maps, photography and contemporary illustrations support each text. Books in Osprey’s Essential Histories series span 3,000 years of human conflict, and upon completion in 2004, the series will number 65 volumes. Most major wars from the Punic Wars to the Iran-Iraq War are covered in single volumes, whilst four to six book sets are devoted to the First World War, the Second World War, the Napoleonic Wars and the American Civil War. Featuring full-color maps, diagrams and photography throughout, each book in Osprey’s Essential Histories series also includes pictures of contemporary artwork and artifacts, providing a full visual appreciation of how it was to live through each war. Essential Histories are an important reference resource for students, teachers, academics, history enthusiasts and hobbyists.