American Military History: A Documentary Reader presents a series of primary documents relating to America's armed forces from the colonial period to the present. Collectively, the documents consider military affairs in relation to the cultural, social, political, economic, and territorial development of the United States. While some readings address themes such as wartime strategy, operational tactics, and combat experience, others reveal the impact of warfare on society and feature poignant remembrances of ordinary men and women in uniform, and those on the home front.

Presented chronologically, the documents provide a sweeping account of the evolution of major military actions in American history. The firsthand accounts trace America's ways of war, its military leadership, and the vitality of civilian-military relations in the United States. Above all, American Military History is a vivid testament to the long and complex history of the armed forces.