Based on primary source research, this is the most comprehensive history of the Victoria Cross available, tracing the evolution of the award from its inception in 1856 to the most recent bestowals. The study also examines the evolution of the concept of heroism and how the definition of heroism changed along with the nature of warfare.

MELVIN CHARLES SMITH has taught at a variety of institutions, holding appointments at West Carolina University, Clarion University of Pennsylvania, the United States Millitary Academy at West Point, and Texas A&M International University.  He is currently in a tenure-track position with the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Kentucky, USA.

Introduction I've Broken My Arm, Dick, But Never Mind Me Now: The Hero in Victorian Popular Mythology The Institutionalization of Heroism in Britain Teething Problems, 1856 - 1867 Big Implications From Small Wars: The Imperial Vision of Heroism, 1860 - 1911 Fifty Years On: A Half-Century of Heroism 1914: The last Stand of he Thin Red Line The Middle Parts of Fortune: Heroism in Evolution, 1915 - 1916 'Courage Isn't What it Used to be:' Heroism Emerges From the Great War The Hero Comes Home From the War: The Institutionalization of Modern Heroism Conclusion: The New Hero in Action, 1940 - 2006 Appendix Bibliography