Harold Leslie Peterson (1922–1978) was a historian widely considered in his day to be a foremost expert on firearms and related subjects in American history.
He attended Drew University in Madison, New Jersey, where he was an undefeated varsity fencer in foil and saber.
His education was interrupted by a nine-month tour of active duty during World War II.
[1] In 1949, Peterson co-founded a group which eventually formalized into the Company of Military Historians.
He recorded his own performances of classic military music, and he wrote a book on drinks called Cups of Valor under the pseudonym N. E.