In this publication, on the basis of a large factual material, for the first time, an attempt is made to comprehensively cover the tools of information struggle in the largest wars and crisis situations of mankind from ancient centuries to the present day. Mechanisms for influencing public opinion, the role of the media in military conflicts, the work of journalists and representatives of press services in hot spots, the management of information processes in crisis situations, the problems of publicity and state secrets are the main issues of this work.