"Skagerrak " Topic

"In January 1916 Vizeadmiral Scheer took command of the High Sea Fleet. This aggressive and pugnacious leader embarked upon a vigorous offensive program which culminated in the greatest clash between dreadnought capital ships the world had seen. Although outnumbered almost two to one, Vizeadmiral Scheer conducted a provocative operation on 31 May 1916. Who would prevail: the massive preponderance of British heavy calibre cannon, or the aggressive tactics of the street fighter Scheer?
Manning the ships of both sides were the technically skilled and talented seamen who were prepared to carry out their duties loyally and courageously until the very end. Over 8,500 men perished in less than 10 hours of fighting, a horrendous loss, even by World War One standards. This book gives voice to many of the German Navy participants, from a German perspective, on this tumultuous battle fought over 100 years ago. These men gave their all and are gone now, but not forgotten."

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Amicalement
Armand

Hopefully better than his pretty dreadful book on cruiser warfare in WW1

I'm curious, David. What put you off Staff's book on WW1 cruiser engagements?

B

Let's just say it lacks objectivity and had a certain (incredibly heavy) bias. To be honest a theme that is prevalent in some of his other work.

Any other book recommendations on Jutland/Skagerrak from the German perspective?

Cheers,
Wilf

Wilf wrote –
"Any other book recommendations on Jutland/Skagerrak from the German perspective?"

"Jutland: the German Perspective" by V E Tarrant. Been around for twenty-odd years, so should be available used for a modest cost. Go here -
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Another worthwhile reference that takes into account the German point of view is "Jutland" by Holloway H Frost (USN officer attached to the Office of Naval Intelligence). Written in the 30's, but nevertheless remains a valuable resource, as Frost had conducted extensive interviews and correspondence exchanges with many of the participating German officers. This book may be available on the web as a free D/L through archive.org or similar. Frost's Jutland chart/map collection (basically an update of the German official maps from Der Krieg zur See Volume V can also be found on archive.org.

You might also want to keep an eye out for forthcoming Jutland related books from John Brooks and Nick Jellicoe (to answer your question – yes, he is!)

B

So the Germans' coastal force fought very well against a blue-water opponent that was large, rather than good, and in the case of the BCF was downright bad in critical areas. They failed in their mission both tactically and strategically, however.

Not sure there's a lot to add.

Thanks Blutarski,
I will certainly look those references up.
Cheers,
W

I'd strongly recommend the Tarrant book. Very well put together.