It is the beginning of the aerospace arms race-an intense and bitter struggle for technical superiority in the air. The leading aviation pioneers push the technological development while a fierce breed of warriors invent new military tactics. Four Years of Thunder tells the real story of the air war in World War I through the most stunning, authentic footage ever assembled. This comprehensive and authoritative treatment of this subject covers the sweep of military aviation from the beginning of flight to a sophisticated powerful system of aerial warfare. Four Years of Thunder would be useful for classes on World History, Science and Technology, Military History, and the Twentieth Century. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.

Bloody April

A lighter, faster generation of German aircraft combined with thorough pilot training turned the tide once again for German air superiority. Legendary German ace pilots Oswald Boelcke and Manfred von Richthofen wreaked havoc among the Allies. Causalities inflicted by the Germans were so high in April of 1917 that the British called the month "Bloody April." The tide turned during this period as the Allies produced fighters like the Spad and the Sopwith Camel-the deadliest fighter of the war.

Vocabulary

• albatross
• synchronized
• formidable
• irreverence
• protÇgÇ
• elite
• obsolete
• status
• hone
• relinquish
• chivalry
• eccentric
• furlough
• debut
• diversion
• facade

Discussion Questions

1. The Red Baron is a legend in aviation history. Why is he so legendary? How did he get the name "Red Baron?"
2. Why was "Bloody April" considered the "golden age" of WWI fighters?
3. What was the role of women in aircraft production?
4. What is a flyers' marriage. Why was the relationship between a pilot and his observer so important?
5. How was the construction of the Albatross fighter unique? How was this construction and advancement and advantage in aerial warfare?
6. Why was April of 1917 called "Bloody April?"
7. What are the different tactics between fighter air squadrons and ground troops?
8. Why is so important for a fighter pilot to identity with his/her squadron?
9. Why did the Allies bury their enemy, the Red Baron, with full military honors?

Extended Activities

1. Read the novel All Quiet on the Western Front and discuss how the infantry soldiers in the novel felt about the war they were fighting.
2. Imagine that you are a fighter pilot. Design an emblem for your squadron.