Revisionist History Presenting: The Bomber Mafia by Malcolm Gladwell
Apr 27, 2021
Dive into the revolutionary world of aerial warfare as visionary pilots confront the daunting precision of bombing. Meet Carl Norden and discover his groundbreaking invention, the Norden bombsite, designed to change the game in World War II. Explore the challenges of altitude and speed that shaped bombing techniques, while uncovering the secrets behind Norden's algorithms. See how his unconventional genius clashed with military expectations, and learn about the lasting impact of his innovations on modern warfare.
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The Reclusive Genius
- Malcolm Gladwell introduces Carl Norden, a reclusive genius.
- Norden invented the Norden bombsight, central to the Bomber Mafia's vision.
Bombing Challenges
- Dropping a bomb accurately from a plane is complex due to multiple factors.
- These include speed, altitude, wind, temperature, and the plane's movements.
Norden's Mind's Eye
- Carl Norden possessed an exceptional "mind's eye" for complex calculations.
- He designed the bombsight solely through mental visualization, holding all the complexities in his head.
