The USAF Military History Symposia have been held periodically since 1967. This subject is one that had been given little scholarly work in the field and had hampered effective teaching of the subject at the Air force Academy. The manuscripts extends chronologically form a study of British views on air power even before 1903 through a major pioneer's perceptions of the future role of air power in the defense of the United States and its allies. Themes include the human element of air power, the intricate relationship among technology, doctrine and the successful employment of air power, and lastly that the historical study of air power is most useful when examined within the overall context of time place and circumstances.