Civil War Torpedoes and the Global Development of Landmine Warfare

Civil War Torpedoes and the Global Development of Landmine Warfare explores the use of landmines in the American Civil War and their legacy in the post-Cold War era, highlighting the technical and tactical aspects of the Civil War torpedo and the morality and doctrine surrounding it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Civil War Torpedoes and the Global Development of Landmine Warfare is a comprehensive exploration of the use of landmines in the American Civil War and their subsequent impact on global landmine warfare. The book traces the history of landmines from their predecessors before 1861 to their legacy in the post-Cold War era. It highlights the pioneering role of Confederates in the use of torpedoes, which were commonly called landmines in the 1860s. These Confederates buried torpedoes in front of fortifications, along roads, and as booby traps. Federal troops quickly learned how to deal with them, often using Confederate prisoners to dig them up.

The book delves into the technical and tactical aspects of the Civil War torpedo, as well as the morality and doctrine that surrounded this weapon. Hess provides a detailed account of the first doctrine of landmine use in global history, which emerged during the Civil War. He explores the various types of torpedoes used, their effectiveness, and the strategies employed by both sides to counter them.

Through intensive research in archival institutions, published primary sources, and technical literature, Hess has created the definitive account of Civil War era landmine warfare within its global context. The book offers valuable insights into the development of landmine warfare and its impact on international conflicts. It highlights the ethical and humanitarian concerns associated with the use of landmines and the efforts to regulate and eliminate their use.

In conclusion, Civil War Torpedoes and the Global Development of Landmine Warfare is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of landmines and their impact on global security. Hess's comprehensive and detailed account provides valuable insights into the development of landmine warfare and its ongoing relevance to our world today.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 228 x 153 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538174289