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Torpedoes Books
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Edward W. (Edward Wilson) Very
Navies of the world : $b giving concise descriptions of the plans, armament and armor of the naval vessels of twenty of the principal nations.
"Navies of the World" by Lieutenant Edward W. Very is a comprehensive reference work on naval vessels, written in the late 19th century. The volume presents detailed descriptions of the plans, armament, and armor of the principal naval fleets from various nations, alongside the latest advancements in ordnance, torpedoes, and naval architecture. The author aims to provide authentic and systematic insights into the strengths and capabilities of navies around the globe during a transformative period in maritime military technology. The opening of "Navies of the World" sets the stage by discussing the rapid advancements in naval technology and tactics in the last two decades, highlighting how the evolution of a navy's capabilities has made it challenging to accurately assess their strengths. Lieutenant Very explains his intent to compile a trustworthy overview of naval fleets, emphasizing the importance of relying on authentic sources to inform readers. This introduction provides a foundation for the subsequent detailed sections that categorize fleets and their specifications, and outlines the significant naval battles from 1860 to 1880, effectively indicating the book’s scholarly and informative focus.
Charles William Sleeman
Torpedoes and Torpedo Warfare Containing a Complete and Concise Account of the Rise and Progress of Submarine Warfare
"Torpedoes and Torpedo Warfare" by Charles William Sleeman is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book addresses the evolution of torpedo warfare, detailing advancements in submarine technology and tactics from their inception to the time of writing. It notably covers various types of torpedoes, their mechanisms, and significant historical events associated with their use in naval conflicts. The opening of the book presents an overview of the early history of the torpedo, tracing its roots back to the 16th century with the use of explosive devices in naval warfare. Sleeman discusses prominent figures in the development of torpedo technology, such as Captain David Bushnell, who pioneered underwater explosives, and Robert Fulton, known for his submarine warfare experiments. The section highlights the challenges and failures faced in early attempts at using torpedoes effectively, setting the stage for the later advancements that would solidify their place in naval strategy.
Frederick Harvey
Instructions for the Management of Harvey's Sea Torpedo
"Instructions for the Management of Harvey's Sea Torpedo" by Frederick Harvey is a technical manual written in the early 1870s. This publication serves as an instructional guide for naval officers and operators on the use and management of sea torpedoes, a revolutionary weapon system of that era. The book likely addresses the strategic and practical aspects of deploying torpedoes in naval warfare, reflecting the changing dynamics of naval technology during the late 19th century. The book provides detailed specifications for the construction, loading, and operational handling of both large and small torpedoes, emphasizing the importance of precise mechanics for effective usage in combat situations. Harvey outlines essential procedures for launching torpedoes, handling explosive components, and the tactical execution of attacks on enemy vessels. Also included are insights into the strategic deployment of torpedoes, including various attack scenarios against different types of naval vessels, ensuring that operators are well-equipped to manage the complexities of underwater warfare.
Robert Fulton
Torpedo War, and Submarine Explosions
"Torpedo War, and Submarine Explosions" by Robert Fulton is a scientific publication written in the early 19th century. This work details the development and practical application of torpedoes as a revolutionary weapon in naval warfare, arguing for their importance in national defense. Fulton draws upon his own experiences and experiments, particularly in the context of the naval capabilities of the United States, to advocate for the adoption of these technologies. The opening of the work introduces readers to the author's intentions, presenting a letter addressed to key political figures including President James Madison, in which he discusses his demonstrations of torpedo technology. Fulton reflects on previous experiments, noting their effectiveness and the potential for such devices to change maritime combat entirely. He outlines the practical aspects of using torpedoes against enemy vessels, emphasizing their ability to create a formidable defense against blockades and aggressions. Through historical examples, such as the successful detonation under the Danish brig Dorothea, Fulton establishes a persuasive case for the necessity and efficacy of torpedoes in future naval engagements.
Richard L. (Richard Lancelot) Maury
A brief sketch of the work of Matthew Fontaine Maury during the war, 1861-1865
"A Brief Sketch of the Work of Matthew Fontaine Maury During the War 1861-1865" by Richard L. Maury is a historical account published in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the contributions of Commodore Matthew Fontaine Maury to the Confederate naval efforts during the American Civil War, particularly highlighting his innovative work in developing and implementing torpedo technology for naval warfare. The text details Maury’s pivotal role in the introduction and enhancement of torpedoes as effective weapons for coastal and harbor defense, which were relatively new concepts at the time. It covers his experiments, the challenges he faced in a resource-limited context, and the eventual success of his approaches, including the mining of James River and attacks on Federal vessels. Maury's initiatives not only revolutionized naval warfare for the Confederacy but also influenced subsequent military tactics globally, as they showcased the effectiveness of electrically detonated torpedoes and submarine vessels, laying down a foundation for future developments in naval warfare technology. Through anecdotes and documented trials, the book illustrates Maury's resilience and inventive spirit in the face of adversity, effectively contributing to the Confederate efforts despite overwhelming challenges.
United States. Navy Department. Bureau of Ordnance
Spar-torpedo instructions for the United States Navy
"Spar-torpedo instructions for the United States Navy" is a naval manual written in the late 19th century. It explains how to equip, handle, fire, and maintain spar-torpedoes from ships and boats, with emphasis on electrical firing gear, gun-cotton safety, and standardized Navy fittings. The opening of the manual defines the Class D spar-torpedo outfit and distinguishes service, exercise, and contact torpedoes, describing their cases, stuffing-boxes, circuit-closers, spars, fittings, and cabling. It then lays out step-by-step procedures for priming with dry gun-cotton, testing detonators, splicing and fuzing, shipping torpedoes on secondary spars, and conducting circuit tests and firings from ships and boats, including immersion and stand-off distances; it also covers converting a service torpedo to contact firing and outlines improvised powder torpedoes. Subsequent sections summarize the firing batteries, battery tester, hand-firing key, testing magneto, and Farmer dynamo machines (A and C), with clear testing and operating routines, wire insulation practices, and splicing methods. The portion concludes with thorough guidance on packing, stowage, inspection schedules, and drying methods for wet and dry gun-cotton and detonators, followed by an appendix of inspector duties, outfit inventories, and stowage weights and spaces.
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