Atlantic Linchpin: The Azores in Two World Wars

During World Wars I and II, the Azores were strategically important due to their location in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The US and Portugal used them as refuelling locations, bases for naval vessels, and for the patrol seaplanes and flying boats of the US Marine Corps. In 1943, an RAF Coastal Command base was established at Lagens, which allowed convoys to be protected and U-boats to be harried and sunk. This book sheds new light on a hitherto under-appreciated facet of twentieth-century history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 04 October 2021
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The Azores, a group of nine small islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, may appear insignificant on a map, but their strategic importance was proven during two world wars. The Atlantic Ocean became a crucial battleground twice within a span of 25 years, as the United States, armed with its arsenal of democracy, dispatched stores, arms, and equipment to support the war efforts in Europe. The first instance occurred during World War I, when the Azores became a vital mid-Atlantic refuelling location for US and Portuguese naval vessels. In a groundbreaking innovation, the US Marine Corps utilized patrol seaplanes and flying boats to conduct anti-submarine warfare from these islands. Portugal remained neutral during World War II, but when Winston Churchill invoked a treaty dating back to 1373, permission was granted in 1943 for an RAF Coastal Command base to be rapidly established at Lagens. This base played a crucial role in protecting convoys and harassing and sinking U-boats, effectively closing the notorious mid-Atlantic gap. Furthermore, the Azores later became an important staging post for US aircraft, similar to its role in the previous conflict.

Despite their significance, the Azores have often been overlooked in mainstream military histories. However, this extensively researched and richly illustrated book by historian Guy Warner seeks to rectify that oversight. The author has accessed archives and photographic collections in the UK, USA, Portugal, and the Azores, consulting with local historians to produce a comprehensive and balanced appraisal of this hitherto under-appreciated facet of twentieth-century history.

The Azores' strategic location in the mid-Atlantic made them a vital crossroads for military operations. The islands provided a safe haven for ships and aircraft during wartime, allowing them to replenish supplies and rest. Additionally, the Azores served as a launching point for offensive operations in Europe, with the US military using the islands as a base for its aircraft carriers and bombers.

The book delves into the historical background of the Azores, including their geological formation, their role in maritime trade and exploration, and their significance in the wars of the twentieth century. Warner also explores the military strategies employed by both sides during the conflicts, highlighting the importance of the Azores as a chokepoint for naval operations.

One of the key aspects of the book is its detailed illustrations, which provide a visual representation of the Azores' geography, military installations, and the events that took place. The photographs, maps, and diagrams help to bring the history to life and make it accessible to a wider audience, particularly those who may not be familiar with the region's military history.

In conclusion, The Azores: A Strategic Island in World War II is a valuable addition to the literature on military history. By examining the Azores' strategic importance during two world wars, the book sheds light on a hitherto under-appreciated facet of twentieth-century history. Through extensive research, rich illustrations, and a balanced appraisal, Warner provides a detailed and comprehensive account of the Azores' role in shaping the course of the conflicts. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in military history, naval operations, or the history of the Atlantic Ocean.

Weight: 656g
Dimension: 181 x 252 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399010900