Portsmouth's Military Heritage

Henry VII founded the dockyard at Portsmouth, which became a naval base and was the nation's most important military establishment. It was a potential target for an enemy, so successive governments built defense structures in and around Portsmouth. In the twentieth century, the defenses were adapted further for the new threat of aerial bombardment or attack by submarine.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

The dockyard at Portsmouth, established by Henry VII, evolved into a pivotal naval base, serving as the nation's foremost military hub. During times of conflict, vast fleets were assembled, and the harbor adjacent to the dockyard became a bustling hub of activity, witnessing the constant arrival and departure of ships engaged in convoy duties, blockading, and attacking enemy ports or intercepting hostile seagoing fleets. Consequently, the dockyard itself became a potential target for adversaries, as its destruction or capture would undermine the effectiveness of the Royal Navy, the nation's primary defense force. Recognizing this threat, successive governments invested in constructing robust defense structures within and around Portsmouth, including barracks to accommodate navy, army, and marine personnel. As gunpowder technology advanced and fortification designs evolved, the defenses of Portsmouth underwent continuous modifications, with these structures gradually pushed back to ensure the safety of Portsea Island from both land and sea attacks.

In the twentieth century, the defenses at Portsmouth were further adapted to address the emerging threat of aerial bombardment or submarine attacks. This book holds immense interest for anyone seeking to delve deeper into Portsmouth's remarkable military history, offering valuable insights into the city's strategic significance throughout its extensive past.

Weight: 274g
Dimension: 233 x 166 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398112995