With the major European powers ruling territories in North and South America, Africa, India and across the Pacific, the wars of the 18th century were the first truly global conflicts, the first 'world wars'. Sometimes, conflict on the edges of empire could trigger new wars in Europe. The balance of power there changed as France weakened and Frederick the Great established Prussia as a new military power to be reckoned with. From the forests of New England to the Philippines, this is a brilliant account of one of the most fascinating periods of military history.