This study begins with a brief summary of post WWII history that will lead to the Korean conflict. Much space is given to the machinations of Stalin in his attempts to gain control of Europe and the Far East as well as helping Communist China gain stability. Its also shown that Stalin provokes the US every chance possible. The author shows how South Korea was ill prepared to go to war and how the US was blind to the major signals that an invasion was coming.

This 3 volume set covers the entire war and has 1088 pages. I have other almanacs but they can't compare. The daily entries include military and political involvement on the peninsula and around the world. Stalin, Mao and Truman play an important part. The entries are very specific and comprehensive about battle action and planning. It covers what a good job General Ridgeway did. MacArthur's influence is of course included. Clark's brief involvement is also included. The Chinese counter offensive is also well done. With nearly a thousand pages devoted to the Chronology of this short but brutal war, you can surmise the coverage is very comprehensive. The author provides excellent ground coverage, drilling down to regiment, battalion and even company level when discussing the engagements.

In addition to the narrative, there are 458 really good photos that help convey what the war was like on the ground and in the air.

There are also 29 maps; 24 of which are small scale maps that show topography, troop disposition and axis of advance of some of the key engagements of the war.

The first volume covers the first three months of the war while the second volume consumes the next year. The final volume finishes the war. It also has an impressive appendix that includes an Order of Battle, Major Combat Events, Medal of Honor recipients, Air Force Commanders, Naval Vessels and so much more. It also has a user friendly 63 page index. A good bibliography is included if further reading is desired.

Mr Hanning has done a terrific job of creating the Chronology, based on US and Allied documents and secondary sources, assembling a nice photo collection and finishing up with an excellent Appendix that would be further assistance to researchers. I find good chronologies like this one so intriguing, informative and worth the investment. If you're interested in the Korean War or just like chronologies, give this one a consideration.