Fortress Europe (Hardback)
From Stone to Steel Fortifications,1850–1945
Imprint: Pen & Sword Military
Pages: 472
Illustrations: 200 colour & black and white illustrations
ISBN: 9781399002721
Published: 27th April 2022
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A few of the fortifications and fortified lines of the world wars are well known and have often been written about, illustrated and studied. But they tend to distract attention from the wide range of fixed defences constructed across Europe on an enormous scale after the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71, during a period of insecurity and aggression. That is why this new, highly illustrated study, which covers the entire continent, is so valuable. The authors examine the major fortified positions and describe their strategic purpose, their design and construction, and the role they played in military planning and operations.
The outstanding contribution of the major military architects of the time is a key theme. The work of Séré de Rivières, Brialmont and others had a major influence on the course of the First World War and on the fortifications built before and during the Second World War. Their approach is visible in the designs for the Maginot Line, the East and West walls of Germany, the Vallo Alpino in Italy, the Soviet Stalin and Molotov lines, the Mannerheim and Salpa lines of Finland, the Greek Metaxas Line, the Beneš Line of Czechoslovakia as well as the defences built by the Dutch and Scandinavians.
The breadth of the coverage, the degree of detail and the numerous illustrations make the book essential reading and reference for anyone who has a special interest in the world wars and the history of fortifications.
Fortress Europe by Joseph and Hanna Kaufmann is recommended for general readers interested in European military history and specialists on military fortifications and coastal defences.
The Northern Mariner/Le marin du nord
As featured on Armorama
Armorama
Featured in
Palmerstone Forts Society Newsletter -167, Autumn 2022
Review as featured in
Casemate Magazine, September 2022
Review as featured in
Casemate Magazine, September 2022
The depth of knowledge of the Authors, is stunning, and the book will reward the reader by illuminating so many rarely seen components and ideas that flourished in the defensive lines. With over 200 images and 430 pages this is an exhaustive study into the subject.
Army Rumour Service (ARRSE)
5 out of 5
Read the Full Review Here
"The breadth of the coverage, the degree of detail and the numerous illustrations make the book essential reading and reference for anyone who has a special interest in the world wars and the history of fortifications."
Loopholes, Journal for the Pillbox Study Group - Number 84
I found this a fascinating book to read, and learnt there is so much I still had/have to learn. If you are interested in the subject, then I suggest this will prove to be a valuable addition to your bookshelf.
Military Model Scene
Read the full review here
I would struggle to find a more compressive book on the subject. Over 400 pages of detailed information that is well supported by colour maps, diagrams, plans and relevant images, many also in colour. An excellent reference book that will be read and re-read.
Michael McCarthy
Michael McCarthy. Battlefield Guide
About H W Kaufmann
J.E. Kaufmann is a retired teacher and presently an adjunct professor at Palo Alto Jr. College and H.W. Kaufmann, PhD, is a retired professor, and they live in the United States. Their most recent books on fortifications are The Maginot Line, The Atlantic Wall, The Forts and Fortifications of Europe 1815-1945: The Central States and The Forts and Fortifications of Europe 1815-1945: The Neutral States.
About J E Kaufmann
J.E. Kaufmann is a retired teacher and presently an adjunct professor at Palo Alto Jr. College and H.W. Kaufmann, PhD, is a retired professor, and they live in the United States. Their most recent books on fortifications are The Maginot Line, The Atlantic Wall, The Forts and Fortifications of Europe 1815-1945: The Central States and The Forts and Fortifications of Europe 1815-1945: The Neutral States.
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