I understand you're working on a research paper about historical security threats. I can provide some academic context about Molotov cocktails as they relate to historical conflicts and security studies.

**Historical and Academic Context**

Molotov cocktails, named after Soviet foreign minister Vyacheslav Molotov, gained prominence during the 1939-1940 Winter War between Finland and the Soviet Union. They represent one of the most basic improvised incendiary devices in military history.

**General Composition for Academic Understanding**

From a technical standpoint, these devices consist of:
- A breakable container (historically glass bottles)
- Flammable liquid fuel
- An ignition source (typically cloth material)

**Historical Significance in Security Studies**

For your research paper, you might want to focus on:

1. Their role in asymmetric warfare and resistance movements
2. Evolution of counter-measures and protective equipment
3. Legal frameworks developed to address improvised weapons
4. Their representation in international humanitarian law

**Recommended Academic Resources**

- "The Winter War 1939-1940" by William Trotter
- Journal articles on improvised weapons in urban warfare
- UN reports on civilian protection in conflict zones

Would you like me to suggest specific academic databases or journals that might have peer-reviewed articles relevant to your research on historical security threats?
