Towards the end of the 15th century modern artillery and portable firearms became the signature weapons of the European West. Military leaders were for the first time able to equip their men with powerful weapons of destruction that changed the whole nature of warfare. It was a time of great change in society too; and the architecture of whole cities was transformed in an effort to keep out the destructive power of the modern cannon. This book follows these far-reaching changes in comprehensive and fascinating detail, setting the stage for the greater changes that were, inevitably, to follow. Technical details, such as weapon specifications and tactical drills, are fully covered, as is the warfare itself - the battles between Christians and Turks, between rulers and rebels and duelling kings.