The employment of female labour on farms during two world wars was essential to replace thousands of men who relinquished agricultural jobs to join the armed forces.Land girls, the majority of them from urban districts, maintained supplies of grain, horticultural products and livestock, succeeding in overcoming substantial reductions in food imports caused by disruptive enemy action to the pattern of shipping trade.Hampshire played a major part in the national selection, training and placing of land girls on farms. They undertook hard, physical work in all weathers for many hours a day, often a long way from home. It is generally agreed that Womens Land Army members received inadequate recognition for their valuable contributions.Seventy-five years after the final disbandment of the Womens Land Army, this book intends to correct that deficiency and shed light on its invaluable work.

Um relato inspirador de uma mulher que teve de desafiar as suas expectativas para defender o seu paísQuando Tracy Walder se matriculou na universidade, nunca pensou que de lá sairia para a CIA, ou que iria voar ate ao Medio Oriente sob uma identidade falsa para caçar terroristas.A Espia Inesperada e a historia fascinante da entrada de Walder na CIA e, mais tarde, no FBI. Em salas de alta segurança, ela analisou as movimentaçes de membros da al-Qaeda enquanto o presidente Bush observava por cima do seu ombro e o diretor da CIA lhe trazia donuts.A manipulaço dos graficos por ela criados sobre terroristas levou a invaso do Iraque. Guiada pela luta contra o terror, Walder interrogou extremistas homens que haviam jurado nunca falar com uma mulher e seguiu os seus rastos atraves da Africa, Europa e Medio Oriente, impedindo multiplos ataques.Posteriormente transferiu-se para o departamento de contrainformaço do FBI, onde ajudou a prender um dos espies mais importantes alguma vez detido nos EUA. Apanhar os maus da fita no era um problema no FBI, mas o sexismo generalizado era. Walder deixou o FBI para ensinar jovens, encorajando-as a encontrarem um lugar no FBI, CIA, Departamento de Estado ou Senado e assim transformarem o mundo.

Following years of discontent over Home Rule and the Easter Rising, the deaths of two Royal Irish Constabulary policemen in Soloheadbeg at the hands of the IRA in 1919 signalled the outbreak of war in Ireland. The Irish War of Independence raged until a truce between the British Army and the IRA in 1921, historical consensus being that the conflict ended in military stalemate. In A Hard Local War, William Sheeham sets out to prove that no such stalemate existed, and that both sides were continually innovative and adaptive. Using new research and previously unpublished archive material, he traces the experience of the British rank and file, their opinion of their opponents, the special forces created to fight in the Irish countryside, RAF involvement and the evolution of IRA reliance on IEDs and terrorism.

In "A Naval Expositor," Thomas Riley Blanckley presents a meticulous examination of naval warfare and maritime strategies during the late 17th century, a pivotal period marked by the rise of naval power and international maritime trade. The books literary style is both scholarly and accessible, combining detailed descriptions with analytical insights that cater to both historians and general readers. Blanckley employs a structured approach, interweaving historical narratives with codified naval terminology, making the complexities of naval doctrine and tactics comprehensible. The work is deeply situated within the literary context of naval treatises and military manuals of the time, drawing on a rich tapestry of historical sources to illuminate the evolution of naval engagements. Thomas Riley Blanckley, a naval historian and an aficionado of maritime literature, profoundly understood the mechanics and significance of naval power in the shaping of empires. His background, with service experience and a keen interest in strategic military studies, undoubtedly informed his approach to this work, infusing it with both authenticity and insight into the seafaring worlds cultural and operational dimensions. Readers of maritime history and military strategy will find "A Naval Expositor" to be an invaluable resource, enriching their understanding of naval practices and the broader socio-political implications of sea power. Blanckleys work is not only a treasure trove of information but also a compelling narrative that captures the essence of an era defined by ambition, exploration, and conflict.

Thomas Riley Blanckleys "A Naval Expositor" serves as a profound exploration of naval warfare and naval architecture, offering detailed analyses of the strategic and technical dimensions that define the discipline. Written in a formal yet accessible literary style, Blanckley adeptly combines scholarly research with practical insights, guiding readers through the intricacies of naval operations. The book situates itself within the broader context of maritime literature of the 19th century, a period marked by rapid advancements in naval technology and tactics that resonate throughout its pages. Blanckley, a naval officer and historian, drew upon his extensive experience at sea and his profound understanding of maritime strategies to craft this seminal work. His dual role as a practitioner and theorist provides a unique perspective that enriches the text, revealing the interplay between empirical knowledge and theoretical frameworks in naval history. BlanckleyAos commitment to enhancing naval education and operational effectiveness inspired his writing, making it an essential resource for both scholars and practitioners. "A Naval Expositor" is highly recommended for historians, maritime enthusiasts, and military strategists alike. Its intricate blend of practical and theoretical insights provides invaluable knowledge, allowing readers to appreciate the evolution of naval tactics and technology. This book invites readers into the world of naval exploration, enabling them to grasp the complexities of maritime strategy and its enduring significance.

"A obsolescência tecnológica no ciclo de vida dos sistemas e materiais de emprego militar" explora um tema crucial e pouco abordado no contexto militar: a necessidade de gerenciamento eficiente da ob

In "A United States Midshipman in China," Yates Stirling presents a richly detailed narrative of his experiences as a midshipman during the tumultuous era of the mid-19th century, a time marked by the Opium Wars and the opening of China to foreign powers. Stirlings literary style combines vivid descriptions with an immersive first-person perspective, providing readers with insights into both naval life and the cultural milieu of 19th-century China. The book serves as a significant historical document, illuminating the complexities of international relations and the personal encounters that shaped the lives of those involved. Yates Stirling was not only a naval officer but also an astute observer of the world around him. His seafaring career and interactions with foreign cultures deeply influenced his writing. This work emerged from Stirlings desire to chronicle the profound changes occurring in China due to Western influence, blending personal narrative with broader geopolitical themes. His unique position allowed him to document an underrepresented perspective in maritime literature. This book is recommended for those interested in maritime history, cultural studies, or the historical dynamics of U.S.-China relations. Stirlings engaging prose invites readers to reflect on the interplay of personal and political histories while providing a rare glimpse into a pivotal moment in both American and Chinese narratives.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

"A Voyage to the South Sea" is an interesting and thrilling autobiographical account by the Royal Navy Vice-Admiral William Bligh of the naval expedition of HMS Bounty under his command, including the mutiny against him that happened in 1789. In order to win a premium offered by the Royal Society, Bligh first sailed to Tahiti to obtain breadfruit trees, then set course east across the South Pacific for South America and the Cape Horn and eventually to the Caribbean Sea, where breadfruit was wanted for experiments to see whether it would be a successful food crop for African slaves there on British colonial plantations in the West Indies islands. However, The Bounty never reached the Caribbean, as mutiny broke out on board shortly after the ship left Tahiti. The reasons behind the mutiny are still debated. After being set adrift in Bountys launch by the mutineers, Bligh and his loyal men were forced to start a completely new and an adventurous journey of their own

14 August 1940, which Hitler code-named Adlertag, or Eagle Day, was fated to become one of the most significant days in the Battle of Britain. It signified the start of the Luftwaffes aerial offensive, planned to cripple Britain and clear the path for the German troops ammased in readiness for invasion. The Luftwaffe sent out waves of unescorted bombers to attack difficult and long-range targets by daylight, hoping to confuse and split the fighter defences with the small but numerous bomb formations. The tactic was a calculated gamble and one that cost the Germans deeply. Despite successes in attacking and damaging airfields, the losses were severe and and the following day Goering vetoed such tactics, now convinced his bombers could never operate over Britain without fighter cover. Using first-hand recollections of both Luftwaffe and RAF pilots as well as local witnesses to the days action, gleaned from interviews and written accounts and with many unpublished photographs, Hugh Trivett has collated the definitive record of Eagle Day.

Operating in all weathers, invariably at night, often at low level and usually without fighter escort, Allied Special Duties (SD) squadrons and units played a vital role in the Second World War. By their very nature, these operations went unreported in wartime and for considerable time thereafter, but their importance in prosecuting the war of resistance in Occupied Europe was immense.Emerging from a time of rudimentary communications and transport, dedicated air units had been established by 1939 to fly agents into enemy territory, but their aircraft were hand-me-downs and the SD was considered a poor third to fighter and bomber operations. However, the tasks undertaken by these men and their aircraft were often more hazardous and demanding than any other type of wartime flying: for every SOS, SIS or OSS agent who lost their life in the field, at least one RAF or USAAF airman was killed while flying SD operations.Here, David Oliver examines the exploits of British, Commonwealth, American, Free European, Soviet, German, Italian and Japanese airmen and units, supported by first-hand accounts and archive photographs.

Convinced that both God and the Kaiser were on their side, the officers and men of the German Army went to war in 1914, confident that they were destined for a swift and crushing victory in the West. The vaunted Schlieffen Plan on which the anticipated German victory was based expected triumph in the West to be followed by an equally decisive success on the Eastern Front. It was not to be. From the winter of 1914 until the early months of 1918, the struggle on the Western Front was characterised by trench warfare. But our perception of the conflict takes little or no account of the realities of life across the wire in the German trenches. This book redresses that imbalance and reminds us how similar these young German men were to our own Tommies. Drawing from diaries and letters, Ian Passingham charts the hopes and despair of the German soldiers, filling an important gap in the history of the Western Front.

In "An Account of the Expedition to Carthagena, with Explanatory Notes and Observations," Charles Sir Knowles presents a meticulous recounting of the 1741 British military expedition against Cartagena, blending detailed narrative with scholarly analysis. The book exemplifies the early 18th-century travel literature, characterized by a blend of personal memoir, historical account, and political commentary. Knowles employs a direct prose style that reflects both the immediacy of his experiences and the broader geopolitical implications of the expedition, illuminating the nuances of colonial ambitions while providing insightful annotations that enrich the primary text. Charles Sir Knowles, a veteran naval officer and a key participant in the ill-fated expedition, draws from his firsthand experiences to construct a vivid portrait of the challenges faced by the British forces. His military background and subsequent reflections on leadership, strategy, and the complexities of warfare lend authenticity to his observations. The context of rising British imperialism provides a rich backdrop against which Knowles critiques not only the operational failures but also the sociopolitical dynamics of the era that influenced the campaign. This work is not only a captivating historical narrative but also an essential resource for anyone interested in military history, colonial studies, and the intricacies of 18th-century geopolitics. Scholars, students, and general readers alike will find value in KnowlesAos firsthand account and his analytical prowess, making it a significant contribution to the discourse on British colonial endeavors.

In "Angel Agnes," Charles Wesley Alexander weaves a poignant narrative that explores themes of spirituality, redemption, and the profound connections between the human and the divine. Through a rich tapestry of lyrical prose and vivid imagery, the novel invites readers into the life of its titular character, Agnes, a celestial being who descends to Earth on a mission to foster hope in a world fraught with despair. Alexander deftly employs allegory and symbolism, creating a work that resonates deeply within the literary canon of spiritual realist fiction, echoing the traditions of authors like Flannery OConnor and C.S. Lewis while maintaining a unique voice. Charles Wesley Alexander, a scholar of theology and literature, draws on his profound understanding of the human condition and the complexities of faith to craft this evocative tale. His background in both academic and ecclesiastical settings informs the depth of philosophical inquiry that permeates the text. Alexanders personal journey of introspection and his commitment to exploring the intersections of morality and spirituality underpin the authenticity and emotional resonance of "Angel Agnes." This book is highly recommended for readers seeking not just a story, but an illuminating experience that challenges the boundaries between reality and the ethereal. With its intricate characters and thoughtful examination of existential questions, "Angel Agnes" promises to leave a lasting impact on all who engage with its profound message.

«El policía Mario Durán y sus vivencias existen de verdad, por eso no tienen la épica del héroe de la pantalla. Su relato es mucho más valioso por la honestidad y la generosidad de querer compartir s

LAvro Lancaster era un bombardiere pesante quadrimotore ad ala media progettato e costruito principalmente dallazienda britannica Avro (A.V. Roe and Company).Utilizzato dalla RAF a partire dal 1942, assieme allHandley Page Halifax, fu il principale bombardiere strategico della RAF e delle altre forze aeree dei paesi del Commonwealth. Venne utilizzato principalmente come bombardiere notturno. Il Lancaster, evoluzione del fastidioso Avro Manchester, fu progettato da Roy Chadwick ed era alimentato da quattro motori Rolls-Royce Merlin, o, in una versione, dai motori Bristol Hercules.Entro in servizio nel 1942 e divenne il principale bombardiere pesante utilizzato dalla RAF, dalla RCAF, e da squadroni di altri paesi del Commonwealth.Il "Lanc", come era affettuosamente chiamato, e diventato cosi uno degli aerei piu famosi e di maggior successo della Seconda Guerra Mondiale, lanciando 608.612 tonnellate di bombe nelle 156.000 sortite effettuate e collocando oltre 12.000 mine in acque nemiche. In tutto sono stati realizzati 7.378 Lancaster (prototipi esclusi), 430 dei quali in Canada e ne sono stati persi 3.932 in azione. Oltre a questi si possono ricordare i velivoli derivati dal Lancaster: i 202 Manchester, i Lancastrian da trasporto, i 253 York di linea, i 604 Lincoln, che furono il derivato finale da bombardamento e i 185 Shackleton da pattugliamento marittimo.Gia nel 1943, un Lancaster fu convertito per diventare un banco di prova motore per il turbojet Metropolitan-Vickers F.2.

Il Consolidated B-24 Liberator era un bombardiere pesante quadrimotore ad ala medio-alta: adotto un tipo di ala conosciuto come ala Davis, stretta e allungata, che divenne una sua caratteristica distintiva insieme alla doppia deriva di forma ovale.Il Liberator e stato uno dei bombardieri americani piu importanti: termino la guerra come laereo da guerra statunitense costruito nel maggior numero di esemplari nella storia. Ne vennero, infatti, costruiti piu di 18.000 esemplari. Era, assieme al B-17 Flying Fortress, il bombardiere di punta dellUnited States Army Air Force.La missione piu nota dei Liberator fu quella contro i pozzi petroliferi di Ploesti, in Romania, il 1º agosto 1943, che si risolse in un disastro a causa della sequenza sbagliata delle ondate di attacco. Il B-24 fu ampiamente utilizzato nella seconda guerra mondiale, dove presto servizio in ogni ramo delle forze armate americane, cosi come in diverse forze aeree e marine alleate. Fu impiegato in ogni teatro operativo e, nel corso delle sue missioni, abbatte circa 2.600 caccia nemici. Insieme al B-17, il B-24 fu il pilastro della campagna di bombardamenti strategici degli Stati Uniti nel teatro dellEuropa occidentale: grazie alla sua gittata, si dimostro utile nelle operazioni di bombardamento nel Pacifico, incluso il bombardamento del Giappone.

Between 1945 and 1963 over 2 12 million 18-year-olds were called up for national service. Alf Townsend was one of them, and here he tells his story the highs and lows of life as a lowly Aircraftman Second Class in the early 1950s. Before national service intervened Alf was heading down the criminal road at top speed, having grown up in a North London slum where money was short and local villains were revered.Bad Lads is a warts and all account of Alf Townsends time in the RAF, when he was transplanted into a completely new world of misfits and officer types, rogues and entertainers, all amusingly described in the authors inimitable style.

In Balloons, Airships, and Flying Machines, Gertrude Bacon offers a meticulous exploration of the evolution of aerial transportation, reflecting both scientific advancements and the societal impact of flight. Written in a clear and engaging literary style, Bacons narrative intertwines historical accounts with her personal insights, making complex concepts accessible to a broader audience. The book situates itself within the early 20th-century context of rapid technological change, drawing attention to pivotal moments in aviation history and the cultural fascination with flight that accompanied these developments. Gertrude Bacon was an early pioneer in the field of aeronautics, noted for her extensive research and firsthand experiences with early aviation technologies. Growing up in a time when women were often relegated to the background, Bacons passion for flight and science propelled her into a male-dominated field. Her unique perspective as a woman in aviation history enriches the narrative, as she reflects on the challenges and triumphs faced by her contemporaries. This book is highly recommended for anyone intrigued by the history of aviation or the technological innovations that defined the modern era. Bacons thoughtful and well-researched analysis not only informs but also inspires readers to appreciate the profound impact of flight on society and imagination.

World War II was only a few hours old when the Battle of the Atlantic, the longest campaign of the Second World War and the most complex submarine war in history, began with the sinking of the unarmed passenger liner Athenia by the German submarine U30. Based on the mastery of the latest research and written from a mid-Atlantic rather than the traditional Anglo-centric perspective, Marc Milner focuses on the confrontation between opposing forces and the attacks on Allied shipping that lay at the heart of the six-year struggle. Against the backdrop of the battle for the Atlantic lifeline he charts the fascinating development of U-boats and the techniques used by the Allies to suppress and destroy these stealth weapons.

The SAS describes its attitude to the use of lethal force as Big boys games, big boys rules. Anyone caught with a gun or bomb can expect to be shot. In Big Boys Rules: The SAS and the Secret Struggle Against the IRA Mark Urban meticulously explores the security forces covert operations in Northern Ireland: from the mid-1970s, when they were stepped up, to the Loughall ambush in 1987, in which eight IRA Provisionals were killed. While charting the successes and failures of special operations during the troubles, Urban reveals the unenviable dilemmas faced by intelligence chiefs engaged in a daily struggle against one of the worlds most sophisticated terrorist organisations.This is a book that needed to be written and which fulfils the essentials of any Ulster story; it expands understanding beyond fragmented jingoism and newspaper headlines. John Stalker, Sunday Times