AllMovie

Innovative and imaginative engineers invented the first submarines in the 16th century but it wasn't until the early 20th century that the first practical submersible naval vessels were developed and placed into operation. During World War I, submarines -- the German U-boats -- proved to be effective weapons of war against warships and freighters. Since that time the submarine has evolved and become an effective tool in shaping world events. This 50-minute documentary looks at the history of the submarine, its uses during the First and Second World Wars, the construction of the first nuclear-powered sub, and its role during the Cold War. This presentation uses extensive historical film footage that not only examines the military application of submarines but the sciences and technological advances of this unique vessel and the men and women who designed, constructed, and operated them.