Semper Fidelis: The History of the United States Marine Corps

Macmillan Wars of the United States

by Allan Reed Millett

Traces the history of the Marine Corps from the American Revolution to the present and reveals how the force has adapted to changing times

Genres: History, Military History, Military Fiction, American History, Nonfiction

845 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1980

About the author

A specialist in the history of American military policy and twentieth century wars and military institutions, Allan R. Millett is professor emeritus at The Ohio State University, where he taught form 1969 until his retirement in 2005.

Reviews

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

A classic re-read. Millett crafts the history of the Marines beautifully. From the early 18th century beginnings up to the first Desert War. The story of the history of the Marines is one of America. The Marines are unique in the annals of America’s fighting men – the elite who are always ready to go where needed – no matter what. The history tells you the story of their growth, their brave and heroic battles and the bureaucratic battles that last to this day to simply keep the Marines alive. Politics is ugly when wielded against the USMC. A brilliant 5 + star book that is sadly out of print but a proud member of my bookshelf.

My Rating: 5+stars

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid institutional history of the USMC, from its colonial roots to Desert I...Encompasses many of the institution and mission developments in light of the historical events and context that motivated them...Decent Read!

[Phil Kelley]

Well-written, thorough history of the U. S. Marine Corps.

[Patrick · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very good institutional history of the US Marine Corps. Focuses mainly on the development of the service as an organization and not so much on battle history. Well researched and well written. Could use an update once we get out of Iraq, as my edition ends with the Gulf War.

[Fredrick Danysh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another history of the U.S. Marine Corps. It is an easy read and interesting. The entire history of the Corps is covered including some lesser known events.