Black May

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In May 1943, Allied forces achieved a pivotal victory over the formidable German U-boat fleet, sinking forty-one submarines and damaging thirty-seven others. This marked the forty-fifth month of World War II, leading to Germany's acknowledgment of defeat and the recall of its remaining U-boats from the North Atlantic's major traffic lanes. At U-Boat Headquarters in Berlin, naval officers lamented "Black May," a defeat from which the U-boat fleet never recovered. This work stands out for its thorough scholarship and engaging narrative, offering a significant historical account of these battles. Acclaimed historian Michael Gannon, known for his extensive research, provides the most comprehensive study of this critical moment. He explores the strategic importance of May 1943, addressing questions about the events' causes and the tactics and weapons employed by the Allies. Utilizing original documents from German, British, U.S., and Canadian archives, alongside interviews with surviving participants, Gannon vividly recounts the sea and air battles. He immerses readers in the experiences of both U-boat crews and Allied forces, incorporating their actual words and even secret recordings from POWs. This intimate portrayal of the U-boat war is both accurate and compelling, offering an unparalleled perspective in naval literature.