This thesis investigates one of the staples of academic literature on combat motivation, S.LA. Marshall's “ratio of fire,” through the examination of previously untouched primary-source documentation from the Second World War. This evidence, a series of Battle Experience Questionnaires filled out by combat infantry officers of the Canadian Army in 1944 and 1945, details a wide range of tactical issues experienced by soldiers in battle. The interpretation and implications of this data for the “ratio of fire” theory is discussed, as the questionnaires make detailed inquiry into weapon use, infantry
co-operation with other arms, and general combat effectiveness. The thesis concludes
that this documentary evidence strongly supports the idea that, at the least, Marshall's “ratio of fire” statements are inapplicable to the Canadian experience of the Second World War, and that the body of literature based upon Marshall's conclusions deserves a critical re-examination. / Thesis (Master, History) -- Queen's University, 2008-03-31 14:57:42.693
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:LACETR/oai:collectionscanada.gc.ca:OKQ.1974/1081 |
| Date | 02 April 2008 |
| Creators | Engen, Robert Charles |
| Contributors | Queen's University (Kingston, Ont.). Theses (Queen's University (Kingston, Ont.)) |
| Source Sets | Library and Archives Canada ETDs Repository / Centre d'archives des thèses électroniques de Bibliothèque et Archives Canada |
| Language | English, English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | 1818224 bytes, application/pdf |
| Rights | This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner. |
| Relation | Canadian theses |
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