Holding Their Breath: How the Allies Confronted the Threat of Chemical Warfare in World War II

Britain, the United States, and Canada came close to using chemical weapons in World War II, but the threat of chemical warfare significantly affected their actions and attitudes. M. Girard Dorsey's book reveals that experts and lay people dedicated time and energy to the weapon's potential use, and arms control worked.

Format: Hardback
Length: 306 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: Cornell University Press

Unveiling the perilous proximity Britain, the United States, and Canada reached during World War II, Holding Their Breath delves into the chilling reality of how close these nations came to crossing the red line that restrained the use of chemical weapons. Unlike in World War I, where poison gas was deployed on a regular basis, the Second World War saw a different approach. However, the looming threat of chemical warfare had a profound impact on the actions, attitudes, and preparations of these three nations as they geared up for war, navigated complex diplomatic alliances, and sought to safeguard their national identities and sovereignty.

The narrative of chemical weapons and World War II traces its roots back to the interwar period, when politicians, citizens, and experts alike advocated for banning, resisting, and ultimately preparing for gas use in the upcoming conflict. M. Girard Dorsey, through extensive research in multinational archives and historical literature, unveils a compelling truth: despite the rarity of poison gas deployment on the battlefield during World War II, there was a dedicated effort by experts and laypeople alike to explore the potential of this weapon. They did not view chemical warfare as obsolete or taboo, recognizing its significance as a powerful tool in the arsenal of warfare.

Poison gas played a pivotal role in World War II, even if its traditional use was not as prevalent. The fact that arms control measures worked, preventing the widespread deployment of chemical weapons, is equally important. Understanding the factors that led to the absence of chemical warfare is crucial, as it sheds light on the complex dynamics and decision-making processes that shaped the course of the war.

Holding Their Breath offers a fresh perspective on World War II diplomacy and chemical weapons use by untangling these topics in a novel way. Through meticulous research and analysis, the book provides valuable insights into the potentialities of these weapons and their impact on the course of the war. It challenges our understanding of the conflict and encourages us to reflect on the lessons learned from history to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.

Weight: 57g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501768361