Firearms and the growth of our nation are tightly interwoven. This book describes the author's passion for antique firearms and military history. It provides a wealth of information for collectors and historians alike. Each conflict from the French and Indian Wars through Korea is summarized. Forty firearms from the author's collection are examined and described in detail. Over 150 color photographs, Tables and illustrations are used. Described for each arm are physical features and markings which show date and place of manufacture and prior usage. The guns are arranged chronologically to portray the evolution of arms-making. Numerous references are provided. The collection contains guns by many famous makers such as Whitney,Remington,Hall,North,Starr and Colt, the National Armories and companies such as Smith&Wesson, Winchester and Mauser.