The British are credited with developing the first tanks to be used in war. They were used in the World War that lasted from 1914 to 1918. The introduction of these tanks began in 1916 to replace armored cars. While they had been effective, they couldn’t get to the same locations as tanks could. These large beasts made out of metal didn’t seem like they could be penetrated by anything. At the same time they were able to continue moving along over every type of terrain out there.
Ironically though these early tanks weren’t nearly as effective as one would think. There were still plenty of bugs to be worked out. The British continued to develop them though and they were very successful in defeating the Germans due to the use of them. These early World War tanks were made from types of farm machinery. They were then covered with metal to enclose them and to offer security for those inside of them.
These World War tanks made it possible to cross over into enemy lines though without the occupants being shot. The ammunition from the tanks could take out many men from the enemy trenches in very little time. This type of machinery allowed for the British to defeat their enemy in very little time. They simply couldn’t do anything against the power of the tanks.
It wasn’t long before the other countries involved in the World War were on the scene with their own tanks though. They knew immediately that if they were going to stand a chance in such battles they would need to be able to fight with the same types of equipment. Many different concepts were implemented along the way to improve upon what was already in use.
Some of the early World War tanks are still on display at various exhibits and museums around the world. They are a reminder of what was once used in early battles, and how far technology in the area of tanks has come. While the concept of the tank has certainly improved since then, they aren’t as widely used in combat today as they once were. Tanks are durable but they are slow moving. They aren’t much of a match for heavy artillery or bombs.