From War Room to Living Room

Discover the military origins of more than 45 everyday items and technologies, from duct tape and Kleenex to microwaves and the internet.

The military's focus on innovation and problem-solving has led to the creation of numerous items and technologies that have transcended the battlefield and become commonplace in our daily lives.

This accessible reference volume explores 46 of these innovations, from duct tape to microwaves, focusing on the people and events that made each possible. Entries follow a standardized format that covers both the development and initial military applications of each innovation as well as its transition into civilian life. Readers will gain a better understanding of the challenges military leaders have faced for hundreds of years that have spurred these innovations, from keeping tabs on enemy movements to keeping soldiers healthy and well-fed. Each entry also explores the historical antecedents of the innovation, helping readers contextualize the evolution of objects and ideas. A carefully curated list of further readings rounds out each entry, pointing readers toward additional resources for more in-depth study. For readers wishing to focus on a particular category of innovation, a thematic list of entries at the beginning of the volume will help them narrow their search.