FAQ

What was the bloodiest battle in history?

Stalingrad with nearly 2 million total casualties over 5 months. The Somme saw 1 million casualties. Cannae killed 70,000 in a single day. Ancient battles were often deadlier per day, modern battles lasted longer.

What was the most decisive battle?

Many historians consider the Battle of Tours (732) as the most decisive, halting Islamic expansion into Western Europe. Others argue for Salamis (480 BC) which saved Greek civilization. The answer depends on what you consider decisive.

Who won the most battles?

Alexander the Great never lost a battle in 15 years. Napoleon won 60 of 72. Genghis Khan conquered the largest contiguous empire. However, winning battles did not guarantee long-term victory in any of these cases.

What is the oldest recorded battle?

The Battle of Kadesh (1274 BC) between Egypt and the Hittites is one of the best documented. The Battle of Megiddo (1457 BC) is the earliest reliably recorded battle. Sumerian records describe battles from 2500 BC.