Matt Whittaker
@matt-whittaker
Matt Whittaker is an avid history reader, fascinated by the why, how and when. With a B.A. in History and Asian Studies from University of Massachusetts, he does deep dives into medieval, Asian and military history. Matt’s other passion besides family is the long-distance Zen-like runs.
The American Defeat at Taejon That Saved South Korea
How did a lost battle save a nation? Explore why the 1950 American defeat at Taejon was a strategic masterstroke that halted the North Korean advance.
How Weather Forecasters Decided the Fate of the North Atlantic in WWII
In the high-stakes Battle of the Atlantic, accurate weather forecasting meant control of the unpredictable North Atlantic theater.
Why Thousands of Foreigners Risked Everything for the Spanish Republic
The Spanish Civil War started in 1936, a grim struggle of ideological differences. Into this fight, foreigners came to fight and, if necessary, die.
Why Did Every Major Civilization Suddenly Collapse in 1177 BC?
Before the sudden collapse, the Bronze Age had been a period of great prosperity and regional interconnectedness.
What Was Operation Ichi-Go? Japan’s Final WWII Offensive in China
Operation Ichi-Go was Japan’s largest offensive against China during World War II. An attempt to combat US advances, despite victories, it was ultimately unsuccessful.
Why Was the Danube Frontier So Important During the Roman Empire?
To Rome, the 1,800-mile-long Danube River mattered more than a frontier. Europe's second-longest river represented a strategic, economic, and cultural value.
4 Ships That Shaped the Outcome of World War II
Like the Great War, World War II produced great ships, both Axis and Allied. These individual ships, which took part in actions, triumphs, or even losses, helped change the war.
The Vessels That Changed the History of Naval Warfare
Naval warfare is a race of one-upmanship, or who can build a better warship. And innovation breeds creativity, resulting in revolutionary ships. These are those vessels.
How Did the Famous Liberty Ship Class Beat German U-boats?
At the start of the Battle of the Atlantic, German U-boats seemed to be winning. Hundreds of vessels wend down. The Allies replied with the ingenious Liberty Ship.
How a 70-Year-Old Apache Leader Outran Two Armies Against All Odds
The story of the Apache Wars isn’t complete without mentioning Nana, the Chiricahua war chief. In the summer of 1881, this septuagenarian Apache fought back across America’s Southwest.
The Sophisticated Hidden History of California Before the Gold Rush
Beyond the rumors and headlines of 1849, California boasted a rich, vibrant culture. Discover its sophisticated history before the Gold Rush.
Why the Roman Empire Depended on Maritime Power
From a stolen ship design to imperial mastery, explore how Rome built a professional navy that became the backbone of its global success.