I am currently studying Masters in History of Warfare at University of Birmingham. I often get asked why I chose to study war as my topic so here are some of the main reasons.
I grew up in a household where the military was openly discussed and we as a family actively choose to remember the commitment and bravery of those who have fought for this country. I have a family background in the British military and have been raised on their principles.
My father was in the Royal Corps Transport and then the Royal Logistics Corps, my grandmother was in the Military police with the Women’s Royal Army Corps and my Great Grandfather fought in World War Two. I grew up looking at their photographs, medals and other related objects and I would always ask questions, keen to learn more. I strongly believe that in studying warfare I am honouring the career path chosen by my family members and it also helps me understand their decisions.
Honouring those before us
I firmly believe that studying warfare is important as those who fought for their country deserve to be remembered. I feel that, through my degree, I’m playing my part in ensuring their dedication and hard work is honoured. I also believe that studying military history provides one of the few avenues for understanding past and current conflict. Studying the loss, sacrifice and horrors of previous wars allows for a deeper understanding on their causes; hopefully ensuring that history doesn’t repeat itself.
I firmly believe that studying warfare is crucial to understanding society. After all, some of the most advanced developments stem from conflict. War is not something that can simply be ignored or downplayed. My degree is so much more than simply the study of war; it is also the study of society, technology, and politics.
Personal narratives
I’ve always found war intriguing and I was thrilled by the opportunity to study its history as my masters degree. I truly feel that the study of war history enables you to understand individual motives, how we treat each other and the key issues of the human condition.
Examining the personal narratives of those impacted by conflict is insightful, vital and heartbreaking. For me there truly is no substitute for the experience I feel when researching, discussing, and writing about warfare. I thoroughly enjoy the topic and do not feel that it is something I will become bored of anytime soon. So if you are interested in the topic – or have just stumbled on this for the first time – it might be the right move for you, too.
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