American Military History: From Colonials to Counterinsurgents

Exploring The French and Indian War of the mid-1700s, which is one of the formative conflicts in American military history; focusing on the experiences of Lt. Col. George Washington, a young colonial officer fighting for the British.

When the colonies begin their struggle for independence, they choose George Washington to lead the army; Washington's defense of Boston; his defeat trying to hold New York City; contrasting British and American objectives in the Revolutionary War.

Washington's army is in dire straits; his command is in question; he revives his reputation with the famous crossing of the Delaware River; the next four years of the American Revolution, which see Britain's strategic advantage deteriorate.

Why the United States chooses to fight Britain in the War of 1812; America's grievances and ambitions, which include the conquest of Canada; the poor strategy, command and training that lead to a strategic stalemate; the exception is Andrew Jackson.

The continental U.S. reaches its present span due to the Mexican-American War; the strategies and tactics of generals Zachary Taylor and Winfield Scott; what disciplined and bold maneuvers conducted by a professional army can accomplish.

The Civil War sets the pattern for warfare in the 20th and 21st centuries; the political events leading up to the war; the strategy devised by Winfield Scott; the chaotic First Battle of Bull Run; developments in the western theater.