Since the first flint spearheads emerged around 600, 000 years ago, edged weapons have played a central part in the shaping of human society. As well as being the foremost weapon of war for centuries, swords, spears and lances have been used all over the world for hunting, status and as a badge of honour. This broad-ranging work examines all the most significant edged weapons, from the swords and spears of ancient Egypt to the pike and thrusting polearms of medieval Europe, and from the slashing sabres of the 17th-century cavalry to the presentation and dress swords used for show, pomp and civil ceremonies in the 1900s. Featuring more than 400 examples from around the world, this comprehensive volume includes not only all types of swords, but also polearms, pikes, lances and spears, and also offers information on African, Chinese, Sri Lankan, Indian and South-east Asian weapons. An indispensable resource for the keen enthusiast and serious collector alike, the detailed, close-up photographs of each entry will intrigue anyone with an interest in the conflicts, warriors and weapons that have been a part of our human history.