To Build the Nation’s Might: Tradition and Adaptation in the U.S. Army, 1775-2025

This special report traces how the U.S. Army has evolved over 250 years in response to changing threats, technologies, and national priorities. It explores the balance between tradition and adaptation—from early militias and frontier constabulary roles to modern professional forces shaped by global conflict and innovation. By examining historical patterns, the report offers insight into how institutional change has influenced military effectiveness, readiness, and the Army’s role in national security.