The Devil's Chariots: The Birth and Secret Battles of the First Tanks

by John Glanfield

John Glanfield's intensive research has unearthed much new information on the events and personalities surrounding tank production and development to paint a refreshingly different picture of the tank story. The Devil's Chariots is a revelatory account of the pioneer builders and their strange machines, of the men who backed them, and their disbelievers. The heroism of the crews is not forgotten, but behind their terrifying war lay a very different series of often bitter conflicts. They were fought out in greatest secrecy by - and sometimes between - the visionaries, constructors, politicians and the Army at home and in France. The lives of many thousands of Allied and German soldiers hung on the outcome.

336 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2006

Reviews

[Ryan · Rating 2 out of 5]

The first tanks were cantankerous instruments of destruction, as often as hazardous to their operators as they were to the boche. The engine (which was right in the middle of the cab) spewed out noxious carbon monoxide, and radiated boiling heat. The tanks moved at a snail's pace, leaving them easy prey for German bullets and artillery. They were rolling death traps, yet the men inside did yeoman duty, overcoming all obstacles to play a vital part in the winning of the Great War. Their efforts are thrilling, heartbreaking, and utterly inspiring, and make for great reading.

Unfortunately, they cannot be read about in this book. The Devil's Chariots is a story about the bureaucratic tug of war over the first tanks and their utilization. We read about great decisions being made over weaponry and equipment, yet we see little of the impact of said decisions of the lads on the sharp end.

That's not to say that the book is poorly written, or without value. Far from it. I merely feel it could have used more perspective. Weaponry is only as good as the men wielding it, and we see far too little of them in the Devil's Chariots.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written book highlighting the bureaucratic struggles, the lack of tactics and the general misunderstandings associated with the introduction of the British wonder weapon of WWI, soon to be known as the tank.

A good case study for those interested in studying new concepts within military bureaucracies.

Don't buy the book if you are looking for first hand accounts of tank warfare in WWI, or for any real tactical insights into early tank combat.

Do not think this is available in the US which is unfortunate.

[Ellison · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit of a lumbering slog this grinds along at length about how there was a need for a new war machine and how long it took to determine what the machine should be. Occasional insight. b/w images.