Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 27:55-29:18

Cradock and Troubridge after alternate victories

A command counterfactual traces how victories at Coronel and against Goeben and Breslau could reshape Royal Navy appointments.

Battle Of CoronelGallipoli CampaignNaval LeadershipRoyal NavyWorld War I
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Question

How might Admirals Cradock and Troubridge have been employed after alternate early-war victories?

Short answer

Cradock could have advanced to a senior battle-squadron role, while Troubridge might have commanded forces around the Dardanelles and pursued a more methodical Gallipoli operation.

Notes

Subsequent postings are the decisive variable because an early victory could make either officer senior enough for larger commands. Troubridge, with Goeben absent from Ottoman service, might wait for troops before forcing the Dardanelles and thereby alter Gallipoli.