Using metal tubes, instead of cardboard, he was able to make much larger rockets. These monsters were 12 pounds, using bamboo poles for stability that were 10 feet long and could fly half a mile. When British troops arrived, the Indians were prepared, and the British were not. Rajah Ali launched hundreds of the new rockets at a time. The closely massed, normally unflinching British troops broke and ran when the Indian Army laid down a rocket barrage in their midst.
Rockets History
From Nick Greene, for About.com
In the late 18th century, after losing the American colonies, England was more determined than ever to expand her empire. They began a conquest of India, who was far weaker than the British. In 1780, British troops invaded Mysore, ruled by the rajah, Hyder Ali. Unknown to the British, an inventor had been working for the rajah to develop a new kind of rocket.
Prev
- Archytas of Tarentum
- Hero of Alexandria's Aeolipile
- Chinese Fire Arrows
- Wan-Hu's Rocket Chair
- Europeans Make Fireworks
- British Army Defeated by Indian Rockets
- William Congreve Brings Rocketry Success to Britain
Rockets History Related Resources
Build an Air-Powered RocketPurchase Level 1 Model Rocket KitsPurchase Level 2 & 3 Model Rocket Kits
Explore Space / Astronomy
Must Reads
About.com Special Features
How to Ace the GRE
Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >
The Business School Lowdown
Everything from choosing a school and applying, to employment after graduation. More >
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.