Can anyone tell me the history behind the rank of Warrant Officer? I wouldn't mind knowing.

you are not going to believe this...

http://leav-www.army.mil/wocc/History/

they actually go into the origins of the term "Warrant Officer"

for those that cant get there:

The military grade of “warrant officer” dates back two centuries before Columbus, during the fledgling years of the British Navy. At that time, nobles assumed command of the new Navy, adopting the Army ranks of Lieutenant and Captain. These royal blood officers often had no knowledge of life on board a ship, let alone how to navigate such a vessel or operate the guns. They often relied on the technical expertise and cooperation of a senior sailor who tended to the technical aspects of running the ship and operating the cannons. These sailors, sometimes referred to as ‘Boat Mates’ or ‘Boswans Mates’ became indispensable to less experienced officers and were subsequently rewarded with a Royal Warrant. This Royal Warrant was a special designation, designed to set them apart from other sailors, yet not violate the strict class system that was so prevalent during the time.

Well, it all seems to make sense now. Thanks, Mark.

Ah thanks, I kinda wondered about that myself.