A Legacy In Arms

The history of American firearms is inseparable from the history of the United States, for firearms have played crucial roles in the nation’s founding, westward expansion, and industrial, economic, and cultural development. This history unfolds in compelling words and images in A Legacy in Arms, a volume that draws upon the collections of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City to trace the business and art of gun making from the early national period to the turn of the twentieth century. With more than 200 images—almost all in full color—A Legacy in Arms not only documents the inspiration and innovation of arms makers from individual artisans to mass producers, but also describes the development of decorative expression in the gun maker’s art. In an account both entertaining and enlightening, Richard C. Rattenbury details the development of commercial arms making, from the genesis of the Kentucky rifle to the arms of such iconic manufacturers as Colt, Remington, Smith & Wesson, Sharps, Marlin, and Winchester. Into this narrative he weaves the particulars of design evolution and the impact of mass production via the “American System.” The accompanying photographs and illustrations stand as eloquent testimony to the range and richness of the gun maker's craft—and its rightful place in the story of American industry and culture.

This illustrated history "draws upon the collections of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City to trace the business and art of gun making from the early national period to the turn of the twentieth century."--Jacket.

10. The future of Landmines

This book surveys the broad terrain covered by the concept of ''the security dilemma'' and points out landmarks along the route proceeding from proliferation to economic interests, showing that the arms trade is built into development of both industrial technology and political competition.

This work illuminates the historical facts behind the current debate about gun-related violence, the Brady Bill and the NRA, including the original meaning and intentions behind the right to "bear arms". It traces its roots to the legacy of English law, leading directly to the Second Amendment

An analysis of Vladimir Putin's Presidency, and the political legacy he has left to Russia. The author discusses the difference between Russian and western political systems, arguing that incompatibility need not lead inevitably to disagreement or conflict. Although harshly critical of the Russian regime, and particularly of its poor human rights record, Gary Cartwright argues that Russia was never destined to become a western style liberal democracy, and that it is on its own trajectory. In an increasingly globalised world, we need to understand and work with systems and values that are very different to our own.