Mahan's Permanent Fortifications (1887)

Mahan's Permanent Fortifications is a book written by Dennis Hart Mahan and published in 1887. The book is a comprehensive guide to the design and construction of permanent fortifications, including walls, bastions, and other defensive structures. Mahan was a professor of military engineering at the United States Military Academy at West Point, and his book draws on his extensive experience in the field of fortification design.The book is divided into several sections, each of which covers a different aspect of fortification design. The first section provides an overview of the principles of fortification design, including the importance of selecting a suitable site, the use of natural and artificial obstacles, and the placement of defensive structures.The second section of the book focuses on the design of walls and other defensive structures, including bastions, redoubts, and casemates. Mahan provides detailed instructions for the construction of these structures, including the materials and techniques that should be used.The third section of the book covers the design of artillery, including the selection of suitable weapons and the placement of gun emplacements. Mahan also provides guidance on the use of artillery in a defensive context, including the selection of suitable firing positions and the use of indirect fire.The final section of the book covers the construction and maintenance of fortifications, including the selection of suitable materials and the use of proper construction techniques. Mahan also provides guidance on the maintenance of fortifications, including the repair of damage caused by enemy fire.Overall, Mahan's Permanent Fortifications is an essential reference for anyone involved in the design or construction of fortifications. The book provides a detailed and comprehensive guide to the principles and practices of fortification design, and is an important historical document in the field of military engineering.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.