Scope:
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any of the most decisive turning points in the history of the
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such moments often represent fundamental clashes among rival
religions; cultures; and social, political, and economic systems. The outcomes
of these battles have dramatically transformed and shaped the course of
history, often sending it on unexpected or completely new paths. This course
examines more than three dozen such pivotal moments, highlighting and
exposing the key incidents and personalities responsible for these critical
shifts. During the course of these lectures, we’ll discover how the Battle of
Yarmouk contributed to the establishment of Islam in the Middle East; how
the Battle of the Talas River curbed the expansion of the Tang dynasty of
China; how the Battle of Boyaca resulted in South American independence
from Spain; and how the Battle of Khalkhin Gol, fought on the borders of
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This course features three aspects that should be relatively original, even for
those with some familiarity with military history. First, it is truly global in
scope, including not only the more familiar battles of Western civilization
but also pivotal ones in Asia, South America, India, and the Middle East.
Thus, we’ll cover Mohamad of Ghor and the Battle of Tarain in India, as well
as William the Conqueror and the Battle of Hastings; we’ll explore the Battle
of Sacheon in Korea, as well as the Battle of Stalingrad. Second, the course
analyzes both key land battles and naval clashes, topics that are frequently
treated separately. Third, although many famous battles are included, there
are also a good number that are not very well known, such as the battles of
Cynocephalae, Yarmouk, Diu, and Ayacucho. Often, a more obscure battle
whose outcome was actually more decisive is substituted for a much better
known but, in reality, less pivotal one. Thus, instead of Marathon, we’ll
look at Plataea; rather than Waterloo, we’ll explore Leipzig; and in place of
Gettysburg, we’ll discuss Antietam.