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One of our observation balloons coming to earth after a morning's work peering over the lines

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One of our observation balloons coming to earth after a morning's work peering over the lines

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A returning observation balloon. A small army of men, dwarfed by the balloon, are controlling its descent with a multitude of ropes. There are a number of onlookers, including a man wearing a kilt. The basket attached to the balloon, with space for two people, can be seen sitting on the ground. ..Gas-filled balloons were used throughout the war, mainly for reconnaissance purposes. Attached to cables behind the front line, they were raised into the air providing the necessary elevation to view enemy lines. Frequently a target for gunfire, those conducting the observations were required to wear parachutes for a swift descent if necessary...[Original reads: 'OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN ON THE BRITISH WESTERN FRONT. THE BATTLE OF BROODSEYNDE [Broodseinde]. One of our observation balloons coming to earth after a morning's work peering over the lines. Taken near Ypres.']..digital.nls.uk/74547824 ( http://digital.nls.uk/74547824 )

World War I (WWI or WW1), also known as the First World War, or the Great War, was a global war centred in Europe that began on 28 July 1914 and lasted until 11 November 1918. World War I Images From National Library of Schotland. These photographs form part of the papers of Field Marshal (Earl) Haig (1861-1928), held by the National Library of Scotland. More information is available from the Library's Digital Archive. Like many World War I generals, Haig remains a controversial figure. The collection contains diaries, papers and photographs from every part of Haig’s career, the Great War diaries being of special importance to historians. Photographs in the "Official Photographs" series (which were destined for publication and have captions on the back describing the image) are in black-and-white. World War I saw the development of a system of 'official’ reporting by professionals especially recruited into the forces. Initially reluctant to allow cameras near the fighting, it took some time for the authorities to appreciate the propaganda and recording potential of photography. These photographs provide us with an invaluable record of how the Government and Military wanted the war perceived. Official photographers were encouraged to record morale-boosting scenes of victory and comradeship. Despite the restrictions placed on them, official war photographers succeeded in giving the most comprehensive visual account of the war. It is important to remember that these images were propaganda; few that could depict the war in a disheartening or disconcerting way passed the censors. As a result the photograph taken was often posed. They were intended to reassure those at home and boost morale. They were printed in newspapers, and were intended to confirm that 'Tommy' was winning the war.

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1914
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National Library of Scotland
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