Abstract

Abstract

This paper looks at the development of strategic bombing from its inception at the end of the First World War to the end of the air war over Europe in the Second World War. This paper argues that although strategic bombing did not meet all expectations, the campaign over Europe between 1940 and 1945 was successful. This is accomplished by examining public, military, and political expectations of strategic bombing during the interwar period, looking at how early air war theorists influenced the development of US Army Air Service (and its successors’) doctrine, which in turn influenced the strategic plans for the onset of the Second World War. Finally, the effects of the Western Allies’ strategic bombing campaign over Europe during the Second World War are analyzed by looking at Germany’s ability to wage war throughout the campaign. By demonstrating that the strategic bombing campaign did have a major impact upon the war in Europe, this research paper determines that the campaign was successful.

Advisor

Schilling, Hayden

Department

History

Disciplines

Military History

Keywords

Strategic, Bombing, Germany, WWII, air, airpower

Publication Date

2015

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2015 Jacob J. London