This book provides a unique resource on the educational development of the American military profession. With nearly 140 entries from 65 authors, it covers the origins and major evolutionary developments of all major institutions from the Federal service academies and ROTC programs through the Capstone program for newly appointed general and flag officers. It provides sketches of personalities who made significant contributions as well as discussions of important concepts influencing professional military curricula, contentious issues affecting program development, and significant academic practices.

Most entries include a brief list of principal sources and a general bibliography is also provided. Simons introduces the historical dictionary with a comprehensive essay that locates most of the topics historically in relation to others.