The German Bismarck was, perhaps, the most infamous ship of World War II. Recollected for its new age technology and heavy artillery, the Bismarck is also remembered as one of the most short-lived ships in World War Two history. The Bismarck came into conception during the year 1939. The Germans sought to build a ship that was heavily armed (carrying over 40 differing types of guns and weapons) and at the same time could withstand both naval and aircraft fire. This was not an easy feat since most of the world was out to sink Germany battleships. The Bismarck set sail heading for the Atlantic Ocean during the month of May, 1941 carrying over 2,000 German soldiers.
For the majority of the trip, the Bismarck traveled with other German ships in order to ensure its safety, but the Bismarck had been trailed by British cruisers throughout most of the journey. When the Bismarck was in firing range, the British ships launched their attack on the newly released Bismarck. Unknown to the British, the Bismarck was not only heavily guarded, but this ship had a thick steel band surrounding the outside of its body. The sole intent of the steel belt was to protect the Bismarck from potential fire. The addition of the steel belt proved to be very useful in helping to protect the Bismarck’s crew members. The first ship that sought to fight with the Bismarck was sunk shortly after the firing began. But the Bismarck did not go unscathed, and as it attempted to head back to its home ground, British aircraft caught sight of the ship and the Bismarck was successfully sunk on May 27th, 1941.
Labels: german, military techniques, ships
