The History of the War in the Air

A history of Britain's contributions to military efforts in the skies during World War I.

This magnificent and comprehensive volume was written in 1922 by Professor Walter Raleigh. Originally entitled The History of the War in the Air (Being the story of the part played in the Great War by the Royal Air Force) this all embracing and vital work features the most important account of the aerial battles, the men, and the machines.


Raleigh was Professor of English Literature at Glasgow University and Chair of English Literature at Oxford University. On the outbreak of the Great War, he turned to the war as his primary subject. His finest book on the subject is this, the first volume of The War in the Air, which was an instant publishing success. Unfortunately, the projected second volume was never completed as Raleigh died from typhoid (which he contracted during a visit to the Near East) in 1922. Nonetheless, Professor Sir Walter Alexander Raleigh has attained classic status because of this mighty work and this legendary volume ensures his status as a military author par excellence.

Praise for The History of the War in the Air: 1914-1918
"It is an essential volume in any enthusiast's library of the Great War and an important book in any aviation library." —Firetrench
"The series is one which should be on the shelves of any self-respecting WWI aviation enthusiast." —Cross & Cockade