Abstract

Presenting a global history of aerial bombardment, this book shows how certain European powers initiated aerial bombardment of civilians after World War I, and how it was an instrument of choice in World War II. Beau Grosscup shows that such methods, used initially as a means of terrorizing native populations in Africa and the Middle East, have become the primary form of terrorism in more recent decades. While such 'strategic terror' is not classed as 'terrorism' in the West, this reflects an unwillingness to confront the human costs and immorality of aerial bombardment. Grosscup argues that if terrorism is to be diminished, the role of aerial bombing in sustaining global violence must be recognized.
'A major and much needed addition to the literature on terrorism.'
Edward S. Herman, co-author of The Terrorism Industry
'Grosscup illustrates through his fluent use of colourful vocabulary, that the present-day use of indiscriminate bombing has a long and troubling history. Grosscup's work also has a clear agenda... His central conclusion is comprehensively detailed.'
John Coulter, Tribune
Beau Grosscup is a professor of international relations at California State University, Chico.