Explain one way in which the impact of heavy artillery on warfare in the years c1700-c1900 was similar to the impact of computerised high-tech warfare in the modern period. - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2022 - Paper 1

One significant similarity between the impact of heavy artillery in the years c1700-c1900 and the impact of computerised high-tech warfare in the modern period is their transformative effect on battlefield tactics and strategies.

Heavy Artillery (c1700-c1900): The introduction of heavy artillery during this period revolutionized warfare by increasing the range and destructive power available to armies. This allowed forces to breach fortified positions from a distance, changing the dynamics of both attack and defense strategies. The ability to deliver powerful blows over long distances imposed a new style of warfare where the emphasis shifted towards positioning heavy guns, leading to strategic planning focused on artillery placement and usage.

Computerised High-Tech Warfare (Modern Period): Similarly, computerised warfare has drastically altered contemporary military strategies. The integration of technology such as drones, precision-guided munitions, and advanced surveillance systems allows for high accuracy strikes and enhanced situational awareness, often minimizing the risk to personnel. Much like heavy artillery, these technological advancements have required armies to adapt their tactics, prioritizing technological advantage in planning and execution.

Conclusion: Both heavy artillery and computerised high-tech warfare exemplify a critical shift in military practices, compelling armies to rethink their conventional approaches. The emphasis on maximizing the impact of technology on the battlefield serves as a common thread in the evolution of military tactics from the early modern to the contemporary era.