A systematic account traces the historical use and technical development of poison gases, detailing specific toxic agents, their properties, methods of production and delivery, and their physiological effects. It describes the organization and wartime operations of the chemical warfare service, covering research, manufacturing, testing, and protective equipment such as gas masks and absorbents. Separate chapters examine smokes, incendiaries, and smoke filters, the pharmacology of war gases, and tactical and strategic considerations for offensive and defensive employment. The work concludes with discussion of peacetime applications and projections about future needs in training, research, and preparedness.