Looking for an author/title

Hi folks,

So a long time ago I read a book and I can no longer remember either its 
title or author. I've recently come across a vaguely similar theme and 
wanted to reread the original but couldn't recall it.

So the first book featured a historical theme combined with future 
technology. This featured a robot from the far future who was guiding a 
civilization through a compressed version of armaments development 
similar to earth military history in the 15th through 19th centuries - 
from pikes and swords through ramrod smooth bore muskets, to barrel 
rifling, cartridges and minuteman style military tactics.  Because he 
was a robot and had to avoid detection at all costs, his contacts were 
limited to a very few people. The major theme related to major power 
blocks and isolated kingdoms and the conflicts between them.

The similar book I read recently was volume three of David Weber's 
Empire from the Ashes (Highly recommended!!)

I'm hoping someone has similar recollections and can recommend a title 
or two to investigate.

I'm also open to someone recommending other forums where I might find an 
answer.

Bill
-- 
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