Abstract: A high-voltage pulse generator to generate short high-voltage pulses is described. In one embodiment, a multi-stage Blumlein is used to form relatively short relatively high-voltage pulses. In one embodiment, the multi-stage Blumlein is based on transmissions lines and provides short pulses to a desired load. In one embodiment, repetition rates on the order of 1 kHz-5 kHz are be achieved due to relatively small charging time and relatively small charging inductances. In one embodiment, water as a capacitor dielectric provides a working field strength of 150-200 kv/cm. In one embodiment, the multi-stage Blumlein is used to provide short pulses for a cold cathode as a source of electrons.