The First World War in the Baltic Sea Volume 1: Essen's Triumph, 1914 to February 1915 - Mark Harris

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The prose moves the war along, stopping to examine naval strategy and operations as well as battles, feints, and mine sinkings. Well done. - Historical Miniatures Gaming Society n nA definitive history of the remarkable Baltic naval campaign, revealed through new research in Russian, German and British archives. In 1914, the Russian commander, Admiral Essen, inspired his outnumbered fleet. Supported by British allies, he forced back the German fleet, achieving a striking victory. n nThe small Russian fleet began the war on the defensive, facing potential destruction at the hands of the more powerful German fleet. Britain despatched a submarine force to support their ally. n nAdmiral Essen had to overcome defensive caution from his superiors and the disastrous loss of the cruiser Pallada. He forged a productive partnership with British allies. His leadership qualities and innovative tactical approach exploited modern naval technology and intelligence work to the full, helping to turn the tide. n nThe German commander, Prinz Heinrich, had to navigate fierce rivalries in the German war leadership to resource his fleet. His forces fluctuated constantly as detachments from the North Sea came and went. His subordinate, Admiral Behring, was tireless in carrying out numerous offensive operations and coastal raids. Cruisers clashed repeatedly. Losses mounted. The German flagship, Friedrich Carl, was sunk. n nBy February 1915, Essen had triumphed. The German fleet in the Baltic was on the defensive, with vital trade routes disrupted. When the Baltic ice thawed in the spring, they would return to attempt to wrest back control.