A grand sweeping military history of the “pike and shot” era, with a particular emphasis on the Thirty Years’ War in Europe (1618–1648). Originally published in two volumes, the first covers the life of Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweden, and known as “The Lion of the North” by his many opponents. Born into an era of constant warfare, he became king at 17, transformed the Army of Sweden into the first truly modern military machine, and led it in person for twenty years until his untimely death at the battle of Lützen. His innovations in training, equipment, and tactics made Sweden the dominant Baltic power for the next one hundred years, and have earned him the title of the “father of modern warfare.” The second volume explores the many battles of other great generals of the era, including Tilly, Wallenstein, Turenne, Condé, Eugene, and Marlborough.