This is a Type VIIC U-Boat, the most mass produced submarine in history. At least 577 were built, and it had a very successful record in combat. In the late forties, battery technology was not nearly what we have today, and nuclear power wasn’t even being considered. So, these submarines spent most of their time on the surface where they could run their diesel engines. When they spotted a target, they would dive to periscope depth, fire torpedoes, and dive deep and stay quiet to avoid being detected. All very fascinating, right? I love this submarine deeply, but it’s hard to tell that to other people. I’ll give you an example. *me reading dope book about a VIIC* Classmate: whatcha reading? Me: It’s about a war correspondent on a submarine! It’s very good. Classmate: Oh, is it that one with the Russians? Me: I think I know the one you’re talking about, but this is a different one. It’s a German sub in the 40’s. Classmate: Oh, Nazis? I hate Nazis. Me: Me too. *conservation ends* It’s understandable that Nazis come up a lot when talking about this submarine, since it was commissioned by Nazis, crewed by sometimes Nazi sailors, and built by sometimes Nazi laborers. But it makes it impossible to just have a conversation about how cool the boat is!   submitted by   /u/Background-Set4610   to   r/hatethissmug [link]   [comments]