When there was a battle to be fought, these warriors were there: gladiators, conquistadors, ninjas, Vikings . From Roman arenas to the lawless high seas, this series for readers age 12 and up spotlights the world's most fearsome combatants. Each title surveys the history of a fighting group, examining key leaders, weapons, skills, rules of warfare, and reasons for existing. As the Age of Discovery began and the number of ships crossing the oceans increased, so, too, did the number of criminals called pirates. Wild and rough, these terrorists of the high seas hijacked vessels, injured or killed sailors, and confiscated cargo. They fought for one reason: to make themselves rich through stolen treasure. And they still exist today! This title for readers age 12 and up surveys the history of pirates. It covers key fighters, weapons, combat skills, and rules of warfare.

Includes a glossary, sidebars, index, and further resources.