Submarine Warfare, Past, Present, and Future

"Submarine Warfare, Past, Present, and Future" by Herbert C. Fyfe is an exploration of underwater naval combat from its earliest stages through to the dawn of the 20th century. The book endeavors to make the history of submarine warfare accessible, exploring the strategic significance and technological leaps of submarines, a topic often overshadowed in mainstream discussions. Fyfe expresses his own deep interest in these underwater vessels, advocating for a greater public awareness of naval affairs, and positions submarines as both revolutionary and controversial tools of war. The book begins by examining the groundbreaking, early attempts at submarine design and navigation, such as those by David Bushnell and Robert Fulton, stressing their contribution to shaping contemporary naval tactics. Fyfe also examines to the complex dynamic between innovative ideas and the hesitations of naval leaders, setting the scene for a thorough examination into the future impact of submarines in military conflicts.