-Gabriel (author of some 21 other books, most of which pertain to modern war) is well versed in the history of human conflict. This brief, interesting survey is focused on early warfare, ranging from the Stone Age through the Bronze Age, followed by chapters on the Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, and the Romans through the collapse of the Roman Empire in the fifth century. Gabriel's analysis emphasizes the origins of war as a function of societal changes, and his discussion of the successive stages of warfare is couched in the context of political and cultural revolution. At the same time, he includes numerous examples of technological influences, such as the advantages of fixed spear points that permit additional usage as tools to pry apart stone fortifications. A useful summary, with a commendable bibliography for further research. Advanced undergraduates and up. —Choice