The Forts of the Meuse in World War I

Description

On 29 October 1891, the new forts built around the cities of Liege and Namur, known as the 'forts of the Meuse', were turned over to the Belgian Army. This huge project produced 21 modern forts to defend the strategic rail, river and road arteries in the Oise and Condroz gaps. In August 1914, the German Army attempted a quick crossing of this area in order to reach France, but it took them 12 crucial days to destroy the fortresses. Containing maps, diagrams and photographs taken from private collections, this book explores the design, development and influence of the forts of the Meuse, highlighting the importance of their role during the opening battle of World War I.

Clayton Donnell has been a student of history for the past 25 years. He grew up in the United States but spent several years in Europe, where, at an early age, he acquired what would become a lifelong interest in the study of fortifications. He collaborated on a recent bibliography on European fortifications and has written articles on the Maginot Line and the forts of Belgium. His was the first English language website on the Maginot Line, and he also has an extensive site on the battle of Liege in August 1914. Clayton is married with three children and resides in south-eastern Pennsylvania. He is retired from the US Air Force. This is his first book for Osprey Publishing. Hugh Johnson is a highly experienced and talented freelance digital illustrator who has completed a number of books for Osprey including New Vanguard 102: T-54 and T-55 Main Battle Tanks 1944-2004, New Vanguard 117: Jeeps 1941-45 and Fortress 030: Fort Eben Emael. He lives in Surrey, UK.

"The story of the Belgian forts is important but little known, at least in this country. This book is a welcome corrective, and is highly recommended." --Bolling Smith, Coastal Defense Journal (August 2007) "This may be one of the best of the Osprey Fortress series books and is certainly a must have book for those with an interest in the opening campaign of World War I or just the fortifications of Belgium." --J. E. Kaufmann, Site O "This is all superbly illustrated by H. Johnson, L. Ray and B. Delf, giving us a superb look at how these forts developed and were sustained. Add in a fine collection of period photographs and you have an excellent book on a subject that is both historically significant and fascinating to read. It is one I can highly recommend." --Scott Van Aken, modelingmadness.com