Combat Trains

Combat Trains is a riveting documentary series released by the Smithsonian Channel in 2015 that explores the pivotal role trains have played in the annals of warfare. Over the course of each episode, the show delves into unchecked warfare theories, tales of courage, strategic masterstrokes, and the remarkable engineering advancements of combat trains that have anchored significant events throughout history. This eight-part series offers a unique perspective on the intersection of engineering accomplishments and military strategy, making a compelling watch for history buffs, train enthusiasts, and military aficionados alike.

Combat Trains examines the remarkable stories of trains and railways that have played contributing roles within numerous global conflicts in history. The series showcases the multinational probing of the strategical significance of these mechanical marvels during warfare. From the American Civil War and both World Wars to the Cold War and beyond, Combat Trains is an explorer's tour of the extensive reach, power, and tactical insight trains and railway networks provided in times of conflict.

The series is incredibly detailed and immersive, thanks to the use of archive footage, 3D graphics, expert analysis, and first-hand accounts. The audience feels as though they're journeying through the annals of history, witnessing the incredible power of these iron beasts, their evolution into sophisticated war machines, and the role they've played in shaping the world we know today.

Across the series, viewers will learn about the strategic role that trains played during the American Civil War, not just as troop carriers, but as weapons in and of themselves. Subsequent episodes dive into the harrowing tales of the armored trains of the First World War. This includes an insider's perspective of the armored trains used by the Russians to guard their vast empire's perimeter, vital to their survival against the Central Powers.

In the examination of World War II, the series identifies arguably the most infamous rail transport system—Hitler's 'Fuhrer Train'. This fortified, heavily equipped train played a crucial role in Hitler's war strategy. Yet, it's not all heavy weaponry, as the series also highlights the use of railways in the Resistance's fight against Nazi forces, and the establishment of 'ghost trains', running silent and unseen to smuggle troops and supplies.

The show doesn't stop at focusing just on the trains— it also tackles the railway infrastructure. Audiences will find stories of famous routes like the Trans-Siberian Railway, Death Railway, and the North Korean State Railway that are among several strategic tracks touched upon, revealing tales of human endeavor, sacrifice, and engineering genius.

Combat Trains provides audiences a novel and engaging perspective on military history, inviting them to dig deeper into the nuances of our global history. The show doesn't lose sight of the human stories, vividly bringing to life eye-opening episodes of bravery, grief and joy, resilience, and defiance. Towards the end of the series, the futuristic possibilities of trains in wages of war are explored with attention to the evolution of technology and potential future conflicts.

With its mix of history, engineering, and stories of military strategy, Combat Trains fittingly captures the viewer's interest and holds it throughout the entire series. Blending dramatic recreations, personal narratives, and insightful commentary from experts, the narrative weaves a fascinating tale of our conflict-ridden past and the incredible role trains have played within that.

This historical series from the Smithsonian Channel is an entertaining and knowledge-enriching treat. It's a must-watch for all those who find joy in exploring the past's machines, the journeys they undertake, and the impact they've borne on human civilization. As such, Combat Trains isn't just for train buffs or military history fanatics but anyone fascinated by the combination of steel, steam, war, and human history.