I am doing a research paper for my Western Civ. class and I have decided to do my paper on the MG42.  I was wondering if anyone out there knows any websites with that tell how this gun came about and all the pertinent historical information on this gun.  Also if anyone has an idea for a gun that may have a more historical influence on modern weaponry.  All weapons suggested must be of European orgin.  Thanks in advance.

If you do an Internet search on MG 42, you will find lots of sites discussing history, development, and function of the gun.  Other European guns with considerable influence on modern weapons would be the Walther P-38 (first successful mass-produced double action handgun, the granddaddy of many of today's designs), or the Walther PP, still produced virtually unchanged.  Of course, there is also the Sturmgewehr 44, the first assault rifle (fully automatic, reduced cartridge size and power) which paved the ground for the development of the modern assault rifle.  Lots of choices and lots of info to be had over the Internet.  Good luck with your paper (odd but cool topic for a Western Civ paper!)

I agree, the STGW 44 is a better choice for a "historical" firearm, it literally changed the face of small-arms.

You may also consider looking at the first repeater rifle , or maybe the first revolver.

Thanks for the input guys.  I am going to look into the STGW 44 as a topic.