History of Warfare: War in the Air 1914-45

Murray's concise yet thorough review of air warfare's development from infancy through adolescence will provide any neophyte the necessary perspective to later delve into more specialized subjects, yet his insights also prove interesting to those already familiar with airpower's history. The book is full of useful information. The chronology yields a panoramic view of the subject. Planes are beautifully illustrated and well-drawn maps allow the reader to better envision the distances involved and flight paths taken. Contemporary photos abound. Perhaps most helpful to those interested in learning more about the subject is the bibliography found in the back. The significance of Murray's conclusions may be better understood by those who are somewhat versed in the periods' theaters and battles, but that should not deter those new to the subject matter. Where most military histories rely on the reader's previous understanding of events, this book stands well alone. All in all, War in the Air 1914-1945 is a valuable addition to anyone's library, new readers and veterans alike.

This book has it all. From the start of aircraft warfare, to World War two, it explores the advances in air combat during the two World Wars, providing a detailed history of the battles over Europe and the Pacific. This book includes pictures of battles, planes and maps, along with how each power utilized their defenses and tactics. It covers every region of study in World War I and II, and it shows how air changed warfare forever. Being a World War II history buff, I found this book very attractive. No long amounts of text but diagrams to show what happened, when and where. This is an invaluble resorce to anyone who is interested in this subject.

Murray's work is a good introduction for the period covered. "War in the Air" divides into four parts: World War One, The Interwar Years and World War Two (European and Pacific theaters). Even veteran readers of the topic will find new material here (for example, Italian aviation developments during the Spanish Civil War and a thorough examination of Japanese contributions during WWII, subjects that receive less than full attention by most aviation authors). Murry limits the discussion to propeller-driven aircraft. Readers well-versed in the subject may find the written presentation elementary, and better suited for those with an awakening interest in aviation.However, Murray provides material sure to appeal to those who've seen it all: Numerous high-quality illustrations and rarely-seen photos set War in the Air apart, the best selling-point of the book. This near coffee-table edition offers readers many contemporary, carefully-selected photographs, all the more to admire those sweeping lines with. Attractive color illustrations clarify aerial tactics, reinforcing the visual appeal of the book. All in all, I think Williamson Murray's volume would make an excellent birthday or Christmas gift for the budding aviation enthusiast.