Blockade: Cruiser Warfare and the Starvation of Germany in World War One

Blockade is the story of a long-running trade battle at sea between Britain and Germany during the First World War. Each country fought for survival, but this book focuses on the story of the Northern Patrol and the 10th Cruiser Squadron.

The Royal Navy's role during World War I denying Germany access to the sea, trade, and vital resources was crucial to helping Britain win the war on the Western Front. The 'Northern Blockade', located across the inhospitable waters between Iceland and Scotland, was to bring the German economy to its knees and destroy her home front morale. Likewise, the Royal Navy's success in negating Germany's attacks on British commerce prevented much suffering in Britain.

Steve Dunn vividly describes the final destruction of German surface vessel commerce warfare. He examines the American reaction to the British naval blockade and to Germany's war on trade as well as Germany's treatment of American sailors taken prisoner. Dunn also considers changes in strategy employed by both sides.

Blockade brings to life the experiences of those who manned the blockade and creates a vivid picture of the dangers of duty in this highly significant, but overlooked aspect of World War I.