Carpet bombing is a large aerial bombing done in a progressive manner to inflict damage in every part of a selected area of land. The phrase evokes the image of explosions completely covering an area, in the same way that a carpet covers a floor. Carpet bombing is usually achieved by dropping many unguided bombs. In contrast to precision bombing, it is not aimed at a small target, such as a bunker, an airfield, or a military unit. One of its uses is the aerial bombing of cities.
Saturation bombing is a term similar in meaning, often used interchangeably. The obliteration bombing is especially intensified with the intention of destroying a city or a large part of the city. The term "area bombing" refers to indiscriminate bombing of an area, and also encompasses cases of carpet bombing, including obliteration bombing. It was used in that sense especially during World War II.
Read more about Carpet Bombing: Early History, During World War II
Famous quotes containing the words carpet and/or bombing:
“There are lots of things that you can brush under the carpet about yourself until you’re faced with somebody whose needs won’t be put off.”
—Angela Carter (1940–1992)
“There is a “sanctity” involved with bringing a child into this world: it is better than bombing one out of it.”
—James Baldwin (1924–1987)