The development of heavy ordnance through the ages is a subject with many fascinating ramifications, but this survey has of necessity been brief. It has only been possible to indicate the general pattern. Most of the interesting details must await the publication of much larger volumes. It is hoped, however, that enough information has been included herein to enhance the enjoyment that comes from inspecting the great variety of cannon and projectiles that are to be seen throughout the National Park System.
Glossary
Most technical phrases are explained in the text and illustrations (see fig. [51]). For convenient reference, however, some important words are defined below:
Ballistics—the science dealing with the motion of projectiles.
Barbette carriage—as used here, a traverse carriage on which a gun is mounted to fire over a parapet.
Bomb, bombshell—see [projectiles].
Breechblock—a movable piece which closes the breech of a cannon.
Caliber—diameter of the bore; also used to express bore length. A 30-caliber gun has a bore length 30 times the diameter of the bore.