Description
Book SynopsisFor three millennia the Mediterranean Sea served as the center of western civilization and the scene of many colossal wars and naval battles. In the early summer of 1940, this ancient body of water again played host to a new and extensive conflict as the Kingdom of Italy challenged Britain for dominance within the region. With France on the verge of collapse and Britain facing the prospect of imminent invasion, the Italians hoped to re-establish control over the Mediterranean. The only thing standing in their way was the heavily outnumbered British Mediterranean Fleet and the equally outnumbered British ground and air forces present in the region. Together, these forces would determine whether the Mediterranean reverted back to Italian control or whether the Allies would prevail and retain supremacy over this great body of water for themselves.
This book tells the story of this epic struggle. This was a prolonged and colossal conflict waged at differing times against the combined forces of Italy, Germany and Vichy France over a wide area stretching from the coastal waters of Southern Europe in the north to Madagascar in the south and Africa's Atlantic coast in the west to the Persian Gulf in the east. Utilizing a variety of weapons including surface warships, submarines, and aircraft along with sizable merchant fleets, the British and their subsequent American partners maintained vital seaborne lines of communication, conducted numerous amphibious landings, interdicted Axis supply activities and eventually eliminated all semblances of Axis maritime power within the theatre. In turn, these actions facilitated multiple Allied victories that helped secure the defeat of the European Axis.
Trade ReviewWalter highlights the British contribution to the war via its Mediterranean theater, while also placing it in the context of the strategic disagreements over campaigns in North Africa, Italy, and southern France. A strong piece of analysis, this book underscores why the Mediterranean was always more than just an Allied lake or secondary consideration to the war effort. * Naval History Magazine *
There is a level of detail in this book which naval warfare buffs will enjoy … I found it very useful and will keep it handy for reference purposes. * Balkan Wargamer 15/11/2022 *
Table of ContentsIntroduction Chapter 1: Setting the Stage Chapter 2: The Opening Moves Chapter 3: Germany Enters the Fray Chapter 4: Stabilizing the Middle East Chapter 5: Malta under Siege Chapter 6: Turning Point Chapter 7: Masters of the North African Shores Chapter 8: Italy Subdued Chapter 9: Supporting the Southern Flank Chapter 10: Victory on the Peripheries Chapter 11: Britannia’s Sea, Victory in the Mediterranean Chapter 12: The Triumph of British Maritime Power
