When Giants Ruled the Sky

This book explores the near dominance of American airships in long-distance transport from 1917 to 1935, revealing the challenges faced by the program and the cover-up of a critical design flaw.

When Giants Ruled the Sky explores the fascinating history of American airships and their near ascendance as the primary mode of long-distance transportation. Between 1917 and 1935, the US Navy invested heavily in an ambitious airship program, constructing a series of increasingly large dirigibles. These massive flying vessels were envisioned as the future of travel, poised to compete with trains and ocean liners for transporting people, mail, and cargo across vast distances, including transoceanic routes.

However, by 1936, the Navy's grand ambitions for airships came to an abrupt halt. The narrative delves into the reasons behind this dramatic shift, highlighting the challenges and setbacks faced by the program. Central to the story are four key figures whose dedication and resolve kept the airship initiative alive, even in the face of numerous obstacles. Tragically, the Navy's oversight of a critical design flaw ultimately led to the program's downfall, marking the end of an era for airship travel.

The book also uncovers a significant cover-up that obscured the truth about the airship program for over eighty years. Through meticulous research, the author reveals the untold story of what truly transpired, shedding light on a pivotal moment in transportation history. When Giants Ruled the Sky not only chronicles the rise and fall of American airships but also serves as a reminder of the innovative spirit and ambition that characterized this unique chapter in aviation.