The Tank Museum is seeking expert speakers for its inaugural academic seminar to mark 110 years of the tank.
The Dorset charity has issued a Call for Papers for the event that will take place on Saturday 21 November 2026 at the home of the world’s finest collection of World War One tanks.
Museum Historian, Stuart Wheeler, explained; “The aim of the seminar is to analyse both the decision to deploy the first tanks on 15 September 1916, and the impact it had militarily and culturally.”
Over a century on, the use of the tank during the battle of the Somme in September 1916 remains a contested topic amongst historians.
“Whilst the tank was lauded as a new wonder weapon and captured the public imagination, its limited deployment and mechanical frailty have led many to question Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig’s decision to rush them into combat on 15 September 1916,” said Stuart.
49 Mark I tanks were used in an attack at Flers-Courcelette, following which Haig wrote: “Certainly some of the Tanks have done marvels, and have enabled our attack to progress at a surprisingly fast pace.”
His words are a contradiction to the often-held view that the British military leaders of the period were un-imaginative and techno-phobic.
“In reality, Haig was keen to use every advantage at his disposal,” he added.
Contributors are asked to submit an abstract of their work in no more than 300 words, to include the title, theme and subjects covered.
The deadline for submissions is 27 March, with the final line-up confirmed by the end of May.
Those interested in attending can register their interest and will be contacted when tickets are released.
