An eminent historian profiles 16 decisive struggles from ancient and modern times—conflicts that forever changed the course of world events. Gripping accounts range from Alexander the Great's overthrow of the Persian empire in the fourth century b.c. to World War II's Battle of Midway. With dramatic flair, Pratt depicts the full panorama of circumstances leading up to the decisive clashes, the historical personalities involved, and the battles' historically important aftermath. 27 maps.