The World Encyclopedia of Tanks & Armoured Fighting Vehicles

Brief Summary

The World Encyclopedia of Tanks & Armoured Fighting Vehicles by George Forty offers an extensive exploration into the history and development of tanks and their associated vehicles. Starting with the world's first tank, Little Willie, and journeying through to the modern M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tank, this book delves into a wide array of armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs). Alongside tanks, the book covers their immediate derivatives, including armoured recovery vehicles, command versions, bridgelayers, and mine-clearers, as well as armoured personnel carriers and self-propelled artillery. With over 1200 wartime and museum photographs, it provides a comprehensive visual accompaniment to the text, creating a detailed and engaging reference for military historians and enthusiasts alike.

Main Themes and Topics

The central theme of the book is the evolution of armoured warfare, exemplified through various types of tanks and AFVs. The book meticulously categorizes and describes the development of these vehicles from their inception during World War I through to their modern versions. Another significant theme is technological innovation in military vehicles. Each chapter delves into the technological advancements that have driven the capabilities of these formidable machines. Additionally, the book explores the strategic roles that tanks and AFVs have played in significant military operations and how these vehicles have been adapted over time to meet the demands of modern warfare.

Writing Style and Tone

George Forty's writing style in this comprehensive encyclopedia is both authoritative and accessible, reflecting his expertise as a military historian. The tone is factual and informative, suitable for both history enthusiasts and professional researchers. Despite the density of information, the narrative is engaging, thanks to the clear and structured presentation of facts. Each vehicle is given a succinct but thorough examination, allowing readers to grasp both the historical context and technical specifics without feeling overwhelmed. The consistent use of photographs complements the text, breaking up the information with visual insights into the vehicles discussed.

Criticism

While The World Encyclopedia of Tanks & Armoured Fighting Vehicles is an undeniably comprehensive and detailed work, some readers might find its density a bit intimidating. For those not well-versed in military history or vehicle technology, the sheer amount of technical detail could be overwhelming. Additionally, the book's focus on a vast range of vehicles means that certain models might not receive as in-depth attention as some readers might hope for. However, these aspects also contribute to the book's thoroughness and authoritative nature, making it an indispensable resource for serious enthusiasts despite these minor drawbacks.