Communication

Carrier pigeons, also known as homing pigeons, have played a major role in communication by providing a fast way to send messages reliably. They were used mainly from 1914 through 1945 which was during World War I and World War II. “In an attempt to improve combat communications, the leaders of World War I turned to a much older form of communication: the carrier pigeon” (Kratz). They had a large impact on the outcome of many battles. Over time, many countries were influenced by others to try out carrier pigeons. “Technology--like the telephone or telegraph--was not as reliable” (Kratz). Carrier pigeons were popular because they could fly very fast and were rarely lost. There were no other reliable and secure ways to send messages or letters effectively during the wars. “Some 250,000 pigeons were deployed in the Second World War. Able to fly at a mile a minute, they carried messages from behind enemy lines” (Wilkes). Carrier Pigeons were very important to many people and saved many lives (McLauhglin).