The ‘Jerry’ can’s roots reach all the way back to the 1930s. During this time period Germany was rearming with an eye towards global war. One seemingly mundane item needed was a modern container for safely transporting liquids under very harsh conditions. While the German military had triangular metal 20 liter containers in service, they had a variety of drawbacks. Shortcomings included the shape of the containers which made stacking difficult, the handle design, lid and durability as well as how the cans were constructed. With Germany planning for a modern mechanized war on a monumental scale, logistics would be the key to success. Huge quantities of liquids (fuels, oils, solvents and water) would be required by the troops in the field.
|