Matt Whittaker
@matt-whittaker
Matt Whittaker is an avid history reader, fascinated by the why, how and when. With a B.A. in History and Asian Studies from University of Massachusetts, he does deep dives into medieval, Asian and military history. Matt’s other passion besides family is the long-distance Zen-like runs.
What Was Operation Ichi-Go? Japan’s Final WWII Offensive in China
Operation Ichi-Go was Japan’s largest offensive against China during World War II. An attempt to combat US advances, despite victories, it was ultimately unsuccessful.
Why Was the Danube Frontier So Important During the Roman Empire?
To Rome, the 1,800-mile-long Danube River mattered more than a frontier. Europe's second-longest river represented a strategic, economic, and cultural value.
4 Ships That Shaped the Outcome of World War II
Like the Great War, World War II produced great ships, both Axis and Allied. These individual ships, which took part in actions, triumphs, or even losses, helped change the war.
The Vessels That Changed the History of Naval Warfare
Naval warfare is a race of one-upmanship, or who can build a better warship. And innovation breeds creativity, resulting in revolutionary ships. These are those vessels.
How Did the Famous Liberty Ship Class Beat German U-boats?
At the start of the Battle of the Atlantic, German U-boats seemed to be winning. Hundreds of vessels wend down. The Allies replied with the ingenious Liberty Ship.
How a 70-Year-Old Apache Leader Outran Two Armies Against All Odds
The story of the Apache Wars isn’t complete without mentioning Nana, the Chiricahua war chief. In the summer of 1881, this septuagenarian Apache fought back across America’s Southwest.
The Sophisticated Hidden History of California Before the Gold Rush
Beyond the rumors and headlines of 1849, California boasted a rich, vibrant culture. Discover its sophisticated history before the Gold Rush.
Why the Roman Empire Depended on Maritime Power
From a stolen ship design to imperial mastery, explore how Rome built a professional navy that became the backbone of its global success.
The Wild East and the Russian Conquest of Siberia
From "soft gold" to Indigenous resistance, discover how the Siberian frontier became Russia’s own Wild East.
How Did the Borderlands Shape England and Scotland?
The U.K. is known for its famous regions, especially the Highlands and Wales. Yet the least recognized, the notorious Borderlands helped shape Britain’s identity, governance, and law.
The British Invasion, how UK Bands Rocked America in the 1960s
Despite how the title may read, this incursion refers to a musical invasion, starting in 1964, when British bands jumped “the pond,” changing American musical tastes.
How Ancient Greek Became the World’s Lingua Franca
Becoming a lingua franca in any era is never by accident. Ancient Greek would hold that title for nearly 1,000 years in the Near East and Mediterranean.