This is an examination of the archaeological evidence for warfare in early Europe from prehistoric times to the early medieval period. In particular, in an age when warfare seems to be becoming ever more common, it aims to throw fresh light on the causes and methods of warfare in Europe over the course of several millennia. The chapters have been commissioned from scholars who have a particular interest in warfare and a specialist knowledge of the areas and periods covered. Taking explicit notice of key theoretical issues, the authors examine such matters as the impact of warfare upon the social and political development of early chiefdoms and states. They look critically at the nature and quality of the material evidence for warfare in prehistoric times - especially weaponry and defensive structures - and one chapter places the content of the book in a wider global perspective.