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Channel tunnel
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Channel tunnel
Channel tunnel. Historical artwork of a tunnel beneath the English Channel through which Napoleons troops are moving to invade England. The possibility of a tunnel under the Channel was first put to Napoleon in 1802. This cartoon was drawn in 1804, after the resumption of war between England and France in 1803. The French are also attacking by sea and by hot air balloon (the Channel was first crossed by hot air balloon in 1785). The English defence includes ships and men flying from kites with rifles. A semaphore system is operating from telegraph towers on the French side. From La Telegraphie Historique by Alexis Belloc (1888)
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Media ID 6467517
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1802 1888 Alexis Belloc Balloon Boat Communicating Communication Communications Drawing Engineering English Channel Flying France French Hot Air Balloon Invading Invasion Kite La Telegraphie Historique Military Moving Optical Painting Road Sailing Signal Signalling Soldier Soldiers Telecommunication Telecommunications Telegraphy Transport Travelling Tunnel Visual Walking 1804 Kites Napoleonic Wars Semaphore
EDITORS COMMENTS
This historical artwork captures the fascinating concept of a Channel tunnel, dating back to the early 19th century. Created in 1804 during the Napoleonic Wars, this illustration depicts Napoleon's troops moving through a tunnel beneath the English Channel, with intentions to invade England. The idea of constructing such a tunnel was first proposed to Napoleon in 1802. The artwork showcases various modes of transportation and communication used during that era. French forces are not only utilizing the underground passage but also attacking by sea and even employing hot air balloons for aerial assault – an impressive feat considering that crossing the Channel by balloon had been achieved as early as 1785. On the English side, defense strategies include ships and men flying from kites armed with rifles. Additionally, a semaphore system operates from telegraph towers on the French coast, enabling visual signaling between military outposts. This illustration provides us with insight into both historical events and technological advancements of its time. It highlights how engineering marvels like tunnels were envisioned even centuries ago when communication methods were limited compared to today's standards. The artwork is sourced from "La Telegraphie Historique" by Alexis Belloc (1888), showcasing his talent for capturing significant moments in history through detailed drawings. This print offers viewers a glimpse into an intriguing chapter of warfare tactics and technological aspirations during one of Europe's most turbulent periods - without mentioning any commercial use or affiliation with any particular company.
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