Pen & Sword Books Ltd strana 30 z 41

During World War II, the United States Marine Corps (USMC) evolved into a powerful multi-division force, playing a central role in the Pacific theater. Among its lesser-known units were the Paramarines and the Raiders.The Paramarines, the Marine parachute troops, were formed in 1942, with the first operational unit taking part in the Guadalcanal and Tulagi battles. Though their only combat jump occurred in southern France with an OSS unit, they saw action as infantry in the Solomons Campaign before being disbanded in 1944.The Raiders, modeled after the British Commandos, were a hard-hitting assault force trained to strike swiftly from any location. The initial group trained in Scotland became the foundation of the 1st and 2nd Raider Battalions. Pioneers in camouflage, they used black-dyed shirts and trousers, sprayed their green uniforms, and crafted helmet covers from burlap and netting.In this book, Jim Moran, a collector and researcher, delves into the uniforms and gear used by these elite units. Illustrated with over 200 photos, including close-ups of surviving items, it offers a detailed guide to their distinctive equipment. Supported by the US Marine Corps Historical Center, this work serves as an essential reference for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts.

The Birth of British Airpower describes how Hugh Trenchard, a man with few leadership skills, became a much-loved and inspirational commander who laid the foundation for British airpower on the Western Front in World War I and created the preconditions for the establishment of the world’s first independent air service, the Royal Air Force. Author Peter Dye explores how friendship can overcome significant personal and character deficiencies and how, by assembling the right senior leadership team, Trenchard achieved greatness.The book also examines how the development of airpower doctrine in the First World War owed as much to chance as to careful planning and how air superiority was achieved only through sustained effort, underpinned by an effective and responsive logistic system. Finally, it explains how the ethos of the postwar air force was built around these experiences and the collective effort of all those involved in the air war.

Spigot weapons, a unique British invention during World War II, were different from conventional mortars. Instead of a barrel, these weapons used a steel rod, or ''spigot'', on which a bomb was placed before being fired. David Lister explores these weapons, revealing their effectiveness despite their controversial reputations.One such weapon, the PIAT (Projector, Infantry, Anti-Tank), became infamous during the Battle of Arnhem, where British paratroopers struggled with its performance compared to the German alternatives. Contrary to popular belief, the PIAT was a powerful anti-tank weapon, capable of taking down enemy tanks. Similarly, the Blacker Bombard, often mocked as a failure, was a formidable weapon used by the Home Guard, proving more effective than its reputation suggested.At sea, the Hedgehog anti-submarine weapon, another spigot design, was instrumental in sweeping U-boats from the Atlantic, though its potential was underused due to wartime secrecy. Lister examines these overlooked weapons and the genius of Latham Valentine Stewart Blacker, one of Britain’s key weapon inventors, who played a pivotal role in their development.Through these examples, the book uncovers the true power of spigot weapons and their vital contribution to the war effort.Previously published as Defeating the Panzer-Stuka Menace.

In the weeks after the end of the War in May 1945, 156 U-boats surrendered to the Allies. Some of these either surrendered at sea or directly in a variety of ports, whilst the majority were taken over whilst moored in German bases in Norway, Denmark and France. Nine gave themselves up in the USA, Canada and Argentina. This book provides a comprehensive record of the surrender of all these vessels, and it also includes the story of the 200 or so U-boats which were scuttled, rather than surrendered, in the final days of the War. And it includes details of others which have been raised since and then either been used or scrapped.The author begins by describing the development of Allied policy in 1943, 1944 and early 1945 for the surrender and disposal of the German Navy and its surviving U-boats. It then explains the surrender arrangements, as well as the discussions concerning U-boats at the Potsdam Conference in July 1945 and by the Tripartite Naval Commission (TNC) in Berlin between August and December 1945. The uses and fates of all the surrendered U-boats are then described, particularly those which were formally allocated to the UK, the USA and the USSR. It includes the story of the capture of U-505, before concluding with a schedule showing the final disposal details of each of the U-boats which surrendered.The level of detail, and the exhaustive research incorporated in this work, makes it both an important new reference book and a fascinating analysis of one of the most significant events of the War’s end; it also leads the reader into the world of postwar submarine development and the tussle between the US and Soviet navies to best exploit the technical advances that originated with the wartime U-boat.‘It is, with no doubt, the most complete account on this topic … The time is more than ripe for this.’ Dr Axel Niestle, German Naval Historian‘Thank you so much for your precious work bringing light into the end of the German U-Boats at the end of WW II. My congratulations for a wonderful piece of research’. Horst Bredow - Director of the Cuxhaven U-Boat Archive and Museum‘A remarkably well researched work.'' Glenn Helm, US Naval History and Heritage Command

As the Allies broke out of Normandy in June 1944 and pushed into France and the Low Countries they soon found that their supplies lines became more and more extended. They needed a proper working port on the Channel that would enable them to bring in more men and materiel to fight the Germans in Europe and alleviate their supply issues. Antwerp was the prize they were after but the Germans had it covered so other ports needed to be captured as a matter of urgency. This is the story of the capture of Dieppe, Le Havre, Boulogne and Calais and the Siege of Dunkirk that the Allies decided to do while they concentrated on capturing and bringing only the port of Antwerp. It was a siege that was to last until the end of the war.

Fighting for Hitler intricately weaves together the personal stories of German historical witnesses across thematic chapters, covering diverse facets of the wartime experience. From the frontlines of battle to the harrowing conditions in POW camps, these narratives are enriched with personal documents and photographs, vividly providing the human face of history.This book is more than just a chronicle of events; it is a profound exploration of human suffering and memory. Each testimony contributes to a larger mosaic, unveiling the emotional and psychological landscapes of those who endured one of history''s darkest periods.Included are stories from the Eastern Front, from the invasion of Poland to Operation Barbarossa and the fierce fighting at Stalingrad. The book also contains accounts from those who served in the Kriegsmarine, depicting life on a battleship and gripping U-Boat battles. The book goes on to cover D-Day, the fall of the Reich, and stories of survival in POW camps across the globe. The author''s dedication to impartial presentation allows these stories to resonate on their own, providing a rare and invaluable perspective on the past. Years of painstaking research, translation, and editing have transformed this book into a treasure trove for scholars and general readers alike. It serves as a vital preservation of a generation’s voices, fostering a deeper understanding of how the Third Reich''s profoundly impacted ordinary lives.By presenting these accounts in their unaltered and honest form, the author ensures that the true essence of these experiences is captured and conveyed.

The second volume of a series on a glossary of codebreaking, WW2 Codebreaking Events and Organisations, brings to the reader an easily understandable account and listing, of those organisations involved in collecting and analysing military intelligence principally during the second world war. A listing of key events or occurrences is provided which moulded the direction of codebreaking and gathering of enemy intelligence. Whilst Bletchley Park was the HQ of codebreaking activities in wartime, numerous organisations became involved in a support role, and this became critical when more advanced enemy encoding machines were introduced by the Nazis. The evolution of certain organisations over time, can be tracked to a degree, by reading the glossary in depth.The entries are cross-referenced to enable the reader to research as much or as little as they want, to dip-in to the glossary, to use it as a basis for further study, or just to learn a little more about the people and organisations that helped us win the war with our allied friends.

This book explores the Brontë siblings growing up with maternal deprivation and loss, and how this affected their development both as children and as adults. It examines how their sibling rivalry led to disharmony and separation, where each of the surviving children became isolated and separated into their own personalities and beliefs.Research into sibling rivalry is referenced from modern studies and the structure of the family. The importance of each person’s position in the ‘pecking order’ is shown to reflect on their behaviour and interaction within the family and the outside world. There is particular focus on the eldest and the youngest in the family hierarchy.The author examines the relationships between the four younger Brontë siblings and how Charlotte’s role and behaviour changed when she suddenly became the eldest child. There is a detailed look at the position and expectations of Anne Brontë, as the youngest sibling and least expected to excel. There is an examination of her novels, hymns and poetry and reference to possible autobiography and also to her crises of faith.Anne’s last illness and death are particularly highlighted to try and explain her final separation, physically and metaphorically, from her home and family. The irony of her burial in a place known as ‘Paradise’ and her longing to gain a heaven with her family, is especially discussed as a consequence of her overbearing eldest sister’s character, beliefs and behaviour.This book is not a criticism or discussion of the Brontë''s works but an examination of how these four exceptional siblings related to each other and how their relationships affected all of their lives with unforeseen and unexpected consequences.

Investigating Charles Lechmere: Was he Jack the Ripper? takes readers on a journey back to the chilling Autumn of 1888, when the streets of London were gripped by fear as Jack the Ripper stalked his victims through the shadows of the East End. But amidst the fog of history and speculation, one new name comes to light: Charles Lechmere.In this meticulously researched book, Neil Norman unveils a compelling case for Lechmere as the infamous Ripper, challenging conventional wisdom and overturning decades of speculation. Drawing on modern profiling techniques and historical context, the author paints a vivid portrait of late Victorian London, where poverty and desperation provided fertile ground for a killer to thrive.With its blend of historical insight, forensic analysis, and relentless pursuit of the truth, this book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the enigma of Jack the Ripper and the dark underbelly of Victorian society. With hundreds of suspects put forward over the decades, could the Ripper have been hiding in plain sight all along?

This is the story of the air war over Western Europe, much of it told by the Halifax pilots and air crew who took part. It spans the period between 1942 and 1945 and covers the encounters between the Luftwaffe and the air forces of Britain and the Commonwealth.Many unique experiences are recounted concerning the daily bombing raids that were hurled against Hitler''s war machine. The author has sought the experiences of RAF and German fighter pilots, who explain how they stalked their prey before pouncing to catastrophic effect.This book contains vivid accounts of some of the most heroic actions in the history of air warfare.

A History of Women''s Work explores the often overlooked contributions of women throughout history, particularly in a patriarchal society where men have dominated the historical record. While men were more likely to leave traces – through wills, leases, and civic duties – women laboured behind the scenes, performing crucial yet unpaid tasks for their families and communities. In many households, women supported their husbands’ work, ran home-based industries, or sought paid employment despite societal restrictions. This book delves into three main areas of women’s work: household tasks, home industries, and paid employment outside the home. Through case studies and practical research tips, it sheds light on the lives of these women, encouraging readers to uncover their own female ancestors'' stories and contribute to a richer understanding of women’s history.

Major Malcolm ‘The Bobber’ Robertson OBE MC had been profoundly affected by his service in the First World War at Ypres and on the Somme, and prayed that the boys of Sunnyside, the Winchester College house that he ran, would be spared the like. By 1938, he knew that war was coming again, and as each set of boys left he tried to follow their fortunes and to support them and their families as best he could. The resulting correspondence between The Bobber and former pupils in every theatre of war, as well as to and from their parents and siblings, forms a precious and unique record of the impact of the Second World War on the Winchester community. Together with photographs, diaries, and memoirs from almost all the forty boys who sat down with The Bobber for the 1938 house photograph, their letters provide us with a vivid depiction of the wartime careers of the boys, for whom Robertson felt a huge personal responsibility. In this magnificent book these sources reveal the boys’ doubts, successes, boredom, captures, narrow escapes, loves, lifechanging wounds, and – in the case of exactly one in four of them – their deaths. A Noble Company is an ambitious project which gives the reader an inspiring insight into these young men’s wartime experiences.

This is the only book ever published which concentrates on Titanic people from one particular region – Greater Manchester. The RMS Titanic disaster, which occurred on the night of 14/15 April 1912, is one of history’s most catastrophic human tragedies, which resulted in a terrible sacrifice of life. The people on board were proud to be part of the ship’s maiden voyage, but what they didn’t know was that it was destined to be its only voyage. The county of Greater Manchester in the north-west of England is made up of the Metropolitan boroughs of Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford and Wigan. More than 30 people from the region had connections with RMS Titanic - they being a mixture of passengers and crew, and the majority of them lost their lives. This is the story of who they were, what happened to them during the disaster, and what the future held for those who survived. Some of them left detailed accounts of the horrific incident.

When William the Conqueror died in 1087 he left the throne of England to William Rufus … his second son. The result was an immediate war as Rufus’s elder brother Robert fought to gain the crown he saw as rightfully his; this conflict marked the start of 400 years of bloody disputes as the English monarchy’s line of hereditary succession was bent, twisted and finally broken when the last Plantagenet king, Richard III, fell at Bosworth in 1485.The Anglo-Norman and Plantagenet dynasties were renowned for their internecine strife, and in Lost Heirs we will unearth the hidden stories of fratricidal brothers, usurping cousins and murderous uncles; the many kings – and the occasional queen – who should have been but never were. History is written by the winners, but every game of thrones has its losers too, and their fascinating stories bring richness and depth to what is a colourful period of history. King John would not have gained the crown had he not murdered his young nephew, who was in line to become England’s first King Arthur; Henry V would never have been at Agincourt had his father not seized the throne by usurping and killing his cousin; and as the rival houses of York and Lancaster fought bloodily over the crown during the Wars of the Roses, life suddenly became very dangerous indeed for a young boy named Edmund.

Too often historical writing on the Russian War of 1854-56 focuses narrowly on the land campaign fought in the Crimean peninsula in the Black Sea. The wider war waged at sea by the British and French navies against the Russians is ignored. The allied navies aimed to strike at Russian interests anywhere in the world where naval force could be brought to bear and as a result campaigns were waged in the Baltic, the Black Sea, the White Sea, on the Russian Pacific coast and in the Sea of Azoff. Yet it is the land campaign in the Crimea that shapes our understanding of events. In this graphic and original study, Peter Duckers seeks to set the record straight. He shows how these neglected naval campaigns were remarkably successful, in contrast to the wretched failures that beset the British army on land. Allied warships ranged across Russian waters sinking shipping, disrupting trade, raiding ports, bombarding fortresses, destroying vast quantities of stores and shelling coastal towns. The scale and intensity of the naval operations embarked upon during the war are astonishing, and little appreciated, and this new book offers the first overall survey of them.

Mention war crimes trials to almost anyone and they will respond with one word, ‘Nuremberg.’ Most think there was only one trial following the Second World War, the International Military Tribunal, but this trial indicted only 24 defendants. They represented the most senior Nazis accused of conspiracy, crimes against peace, war crimes and crimes against humanity. But few were involved directly in any of the millions of individual atrocities. The victorious allies, the Soviet Union, the USA, Britain and France, tried hundreds of other cases in many different cities. The British trials took place in several locations in Germany, but most war criminals in British custody faced prosecution in one city. The Curiohaus Trials immerses readers in the untold story of war crimes trials that took place in a miraculously intact concert hall in war-torn Hamburg. Using freshly examined archive material, cross-referenced sources and information from the scenes of the crimes, this gripping account unveils the complex legal proceedings in courtrooms where orchestras previously played. Step by step, readers become immersed in the gathering of evidence, moving testimony and the intricate pursuit of truth. Amidst the search for justice, however, moral and ethical dilemmas arose. The book explores the challenges faced by prosecutors, defence lawyers and judges who had to navigate the fine line between seeking retribution and ensuring a fair trial in a shattered post-war society. It reveals an almost exclusive reliance on eye-witness testimony (even when physical evidence was available), a shocking decline in appetite to try those responsible for grievous atrocities and an astonishing absence of justice at the end of the process. The Curiohaus Trials is an essential read for those interested in modern history, international law and the search for justice.