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There are some who consider Canada a “nation of peacekeepers.” They look upon our martial neighbour to the south with disdain, relieved to know that Canada lacks the macho military tradition that so characterizes the United States.

If you count yourself among this group, then The Fighting Canadians, by David J. Bercuson, is not for you.

Reading The Fighting Canadians, one realizes that Canada’s history is just as bloody as any other nation’s. From the earliest conflicts between First Nations, to the lack powder battles of the Seven Years War, to the trenches of Belgium and the steaming jungles of Hong Kong, Canadians have always forged fraternal bonds through bloodshed and sacrifice. And it is through these conflicts that Canadians formed a sense of nationhood.

Bercuson gives readers an overview of the many regiments that have served, and continue to serve, Canada. The Fighting Canadians is well-written and benefits from both strong narrative and the ample use of colourful quotes and anecdotes.

That said, it’s likely that the book — due to its tight focus on regimental history — will appeal more to ardent military history buffs than to average folk looking for a more generic introduction to Canadian military history.