The three-dimensional (3D) nonlinear dynamics of an axially accelerating beam is examined numerically taking into account all of the longitudinal, transverse, and lateral displacements and inertia. Hamilton's principle is employed in order to derive the nonlinear partial differential equations governing the longitudinal, transverse, and lateral motions. These equations are transformed into a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations by means of the Galerkin discretization technique. The nonlinear global dynamics of the system is then examined by time-integrating the discretized equations of motion. The results are presented in the form of bifurcation diagrams of Poincare maps, time histories, phase-plane portraits, Poincare sections, and fast Fourier transforms (FFTs). The three-dimensional (3D) nonlinear dynamics of an axially accelerating beam is examined numerically taking into account all of the longitudinal, transverse, and lateral displacements and inertia. Hamilton's principle is employed in order to derive the nonlinear partial differential equations governing the longitudinal, transverse, and lateral motions. These equations are transformed into a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations by means of the Galerkin discretization technique. The nonlinear global dynamics of the system is then examined by time-integrating the discretized equations of motion. The results are presented in the form of bifurcation diagrams of Poincar e maps, time histories, phase-plane portraits, Poincar e sections, and fast Fourier transforms (FFTs).