Military in America: From the Colonial Era to the Present

By: Peter M. Karsten

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Synopsis: Newly revised and expanded, this penetrating book goes beyond battles and strategies to examine the character and development of the American military establishment and its crucial relationship to the general society. Chronologically grouped into nine historical periods, over forty articles - including a rich and enlightening introductory essay, new primary sources, and interpretative pieces - span 200 years of military history from colonial times to today. Interweaving sociological and historical perspectives, Peter Karsten probes the following provocative topics: the debate over whether the military reflects or shapes society; the nature of combat and its emotional effects on servicemen; the recruitment, training, and socialization of military personnel; public attitudes toward military systems and military attitudes toward the public; the development of interservice rivalries; the draft vs. All-Volunteer Force; racial relations in the armed services; political lobbying and the military; and much more. This new edition also contains recent material devoted to Vietnam and its impact on current military conditions.