A greatcoat, also known as a watchcoat, is a large overcoat typically made of leather designed for warmth and protection against the elements. Its collar and cuffs could be turned out to protect the face and hands from cold and rain, and the short cape around the shoulders provides extra warmth and repels rainwater (if made of a waterproof material). It was popular in the 15th Century as a military uniform and casual wear for the wealthy. It was also used a uniform amongst Nazi militia in World War II. During the 17th and 18th century and the Industrial Revolution, greatcoats became available for all social classes. Waterproof fabrics are usually natural or synthetic fabrics that are laminated to or coated in some sort of permanently waterproofing material, such as rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), silicone elastomer, and wax. ... US Marine Corps MARPAT uniform Military uniforms comprises standardised dress worn by members of the armed forces of various nations. ... National Socialism redirects here. ... Combatants Allied powers: China France Great Britain Soviet Union United States and others Axis powers: Germany Italy Japan and others Commanders Chiang Kai-shek Charles de Gaulle Winston Churchill Joseph Stalin Franklin Roosevelt Adolf Hitler Benito Mussolini Hideki TÅjÅ Casualties Military dead: 17,000,000 Civilian dead: 33,000... A Watt steam engine. ...
The coat generally hangs down below the knees and the cape is kept short, normally just above or below the elbows. It also sported deep pockets for keeping letters and food dry.
Able to acquire greatcoat materials "of a pattern and quality similar to those of His Majesty's regulations", Proctor suggested, with winter approaching, that greatcoats be fabricated by local tailors, and the regimental tailors being at the time occupied with altering that year's clothing shipment to fit the men.
Greatcoat shortages also arose with recruits of the 49th and 100th Regiments, and the 10th Royal Veterans, all of whom were destined for Lower Canada in 1811 but forced to winter in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
The length of the greatcoat was noted as being well past the knee to the point of impeding the soldier's marching and it was suggested in 1811 that the length be reduced to one inch below the knee.
In 1802, these regulations were altered when infantry officers throughout the British army were ordered to wear a dark blue double-breasted greatcoat with two rows of buttons "similar to their respective uniforms and regimentals" and a falling collar of scarlet cloth.
Uniformity between the officer's greatcoats depended greatly on the officer's willingness and financial means to follow the regulations.
Although this order came into effect immediately, the officers were not required to sacrifice their present greatcoats, but when they were replaced they would be made according to the new regulations.
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