Author
A. T. (Alfred Thayer) Mahan
1840-1914
A. T. (Alfred Thayer) Mahan (1840-1914) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by A. T. (Alfred Thayer) Mahan
The Influence of Sea Power Upon History, 1660-1783
"The Influence of Sea Power Upon History, 1660-1783" by A. T. Mahan is a history of naval warfare published in 1890. This groundbreaking work examines how control of the seas shaped European dominance during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Mahan identifies key factors for achieving sea power and argues that strong navies determine national greatness. The book sparked a global naval arms race and profoundly influenced military strategy worldwide, becoming the most important text in naval thought and contributing to America's rise as a great power.
Types of Naval Officers, Drawn from the History of the British Navy
"Types of Naval Officers, Drawn from the History of the British Navy" by A. T. Mahan is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work examines the lives and careers of notable naval officers from the British Navy during the significant periods of naval warfare, particularly in the 18th century. Mahan delves into the professional characteristics and individual contributions of these officers, illustrating their roles within the broader context of maritime history and warfare. At the start of this work, Mahan sets the stage by contextualizing the naval warfare landscape at the beginning of the 18th century. He introduces the significance of various naval conflicts, particularly the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years War, and discusses the evolutions in naval strategy and tactics of the time. The opening portion serves to emphasize the impact of influential figures like Hawke and Rodney, illustrating how their actions and successes played a pivotal role in shaping naval practices. Mahan also reflects on the changes in naval operations, marked by notable successes and failures of engagement, which are used as instructive examples to highlight the importance of leadership in naval history.
The Life of Nelson, Volume 1 The Embodiment of the Sea Power of Great Britain
"The Life of Nelson, Volume 1" by A. T. Mahan is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work explores the life and career of Horatio Nelson, emphasizing his significant role in shaping British naval power and his extraordinary military achievements. The book aims to provide a comprehensive depiction of Nelson as both a remarkable naval commander and a complex individual. At the start of this volume, the author sets the stage by discussing Nelson's early life, his family background, and the initial challenges he faced due to his delicate health. Mahan provides an insightful look into Nelson's character through anecdotes and reflections on his youth, illustrating how his experiences shaped his ambition and sense of duty. The narrative further highlights his entry into the Navy, detailing key moments that foreshadowed the legendary career that would follow, as well as the relationships and environments that influenced his development as a leader.
The Major Operations of the Navies in the War of American Independence
"The Major Operations of the Navies in the War of American Independence" by A.T. Mahan is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the naval strategies and battles that played critical roles during the American Revolutionary War. Its primary focus is on how control of naval forces influenced the outcome of critical events in the conflict, drawing connections between maritime power and broader military strategy. At the start of the book, the author establishes the significant impact of naval warfare on the American fight for independence. Mahan introduces the concept that the key to American success lay in its naval engagements, particularly through actions led by figures like Benedict Arnold. The opening chapters outline the early naval campaigns, such as Arnold's actions on Lake Champlain, illustrating how initial successes bolstered American morale and delayed British advances, ultimately setting the stage for alliances with France and Spain that would expand the conflict into a global war. The text reflects Mahan's exploration of military theory, linking past naval operations to future implications for American naval policy.
The Interest of America in Sea Power, Present and Future
"The Interest of America in Sea Power, Present and Future" by A. T. Mahan is a historical treatise written in the late 19th century. The work examines the role of sea power in shaping national policies and strategies, particularly in relation to America's growing economic and military interests as it looks outward into the world. The book discusses the implications of naval strength for the future of the United States, making a case for expanding maritime influence to secure commerce and international interests. The opening of this work begins by outlining the prevailing attitude of Americans towards their domestic economy and industries, emphasizing a historical trend of insularity and protectionism. Mahan argues that such an inward focus is increasingly untenable given the nation's vast resources and industrial capabilities, which necessitate engagement with global markets. He highlights the changing geopolitical landscape, marked by the ambitions of European powers in distant territories, and stresses the importance of a robust navy as essential to protecting American interests and securing trade routes. The narrative suggests a critical juncture for the United States to decide between retreating into isolation or embracing its future as a maritime nation.
The Influence of Sea Power upon the French Revolution and Empire 1793-1812, vol 2
"The Influence of Sea Power upon the French Revolution and Empire 1793-1812" by Alfred Thayer Mahan is a two-volume history of naval warfare published in 1892. This successor to Mahan's influential earlier work examines how naval supremacy shaped the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Mahan analyzes major battles including Trafalgar and the Nile, arguing that British control of the seas proved crucial in countering French ambitions and contributing to Napoleon's downfall. His detailed study of naval strategies and their political impacts established lasting influence on military doctrine and strategic thought.
Sea Power in its Relations to the War of 1812. Volume 1
"Sea Power in its Relations to the War of 1812, Volume 1" by A. T. Mahan is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the relationship between naval power and military strategy, particularly within the context of the War of 1812 between the United States and Great Britain. The author delves into the themes of impressment, trade conflicts, and the broader implications of naval supremacy, arguing for the critical role sea power played in shaping events during the conflict. The beginning of this volume sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of the causes leading to the War of 1812, particularly focusing on the long-standing tensions stemming from British naval practices, such as the impressment of American sailors and interference with U.S. trade. Mahan emphasizes the need to understand these issues in relation to historical British policy, specifically the Navigation Acts and their impact on maritime commerce. By contextualizing these events from the colonial period through to the onset of war, Mahan aims to highlight how naval power consistently influences the course of international relations, setting the stage for the detailed discussions that follow in subsequent chapters.
The Life of Nelson, Volume 2 The Embodiment of the Sea Power of Great Britain
"The Life of Nelson, Volume 2" by A. T. Mahan is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume continues the detailed examination of Admiral Horatio Nelson's life and naval career, focusing on his leadership during pivotal moments in naval warfare, particularly in the Mediterranean and his interactions with various political and military figures of the time. Mahan, an esteemed naval historian, offers insights into Nelson's character, strategies, and the broader implications of his actions on maritime power dynamics. At the start of this volume, the narrative shifts to Nelson's role as the temporary commander-in-chief in the Mediterranean following Lord Keith's departure. Mahan outlines Nelson's immediate challenges, including managing urgent military affairs amidst growing health concerns and discontent about the limitations of his command. The opening portion provides a glimpse into Nelson's administration during a critical period filled with strategic maneuvers, correspondence with foreign officials, and a keen focus on maintaining British dominance at sea. As Mahan unfolds the complexities of Nelson's life, he paints a vivid picture of a great leader grappling with the weight of expectation and the harsh realities of war.
The Influence of Sea Power upon the French Revolution and Empire 1793-1812, vol 1
"The Influence of Sea Power upon the French Revolution and Empire 1793-1812" by Alfred Thayer Mahan is a naval history published in 1892. This two-volume work examines how naval supremacy shaped the struggle between Britain and France during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Mahan analyzes major sea battles from the Glorious First of June to Trafalgar, arguing that British control of the oceans proved decisive in countering French ambitions and contributing to Napoleon's downfall. The work explores naval strategy, logistics, and the broader political consequences of maritime dominance.
Mahan on naval warfare : $b Selections from the writing of Rear Admiral Alfred T. Mahan
"Mahan on Naval Warfare" edited by Allan Westcott is a historical account showcasing selections from the writings of Rear Admiral Alfred Thayer Mahan, written in the late 19th to early 20th century. The work compiles Mahan’s influential analyses on the role of naval power in international relations, primarily focusing on historical events and strategic principles related to naval warfare. It delves into the significance of sea power in shaping global politics, particularly through Mahan's famous theories that emphasize the decisive influence of maritime supremacy on national greatness. The opening of this work provides biographical context for Mahan, detailing his upbringing, naval career, and intellectual journey that led him to become a pivotal figure in naval history. It introduces Mahan's early life and education, including his entry into the Naval Academy, as well as his eventual role as a lecturer at the Naval War College, where he formulated his theories on naval strategy. The text underscores Mahan’s belief in the necessity of historical study for military leaders and sets the stage for his exploration of key principles that guide naval war strategy, suggesting that understanding the past is essential for competent naval leadership in the present and future.
From Sail to Steam, Recollections of Naval Life
"From Sail to Steam, Recollections of Naval Life" by A. T. Mahan is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book presents the author's reflections and observations from his time in the U.S. Navy as it transitioned from sail power to steam power, particularly focusing on his experiences before and during the Civil War. Readers can expect a detailed exploration of naval life, conditions, and the evolution of military sea power during this transformative period. At the start of the book, Mahan introduces himself and provides an insightful background into his family heritage and early upbringing that shaped his perspective on naval affairs. He shares anecdotes from his childhood and his early influences, including his father's esteemed position as a professor at the U.S. Military Academy. The opening portion sets the stage for his subsequent experiences in the navy, particularly highlighting the prevailing attitudes towards naval officers and seamen prior to the Civil War. Mahan notes the significant changes in naval technology and public perception regarding the navy’s role in national security, laying the groundwork for the reflections and narratives that follow.
Sea Power in its Relations to the War of 1812. Volume 2
"Sea Power in its Relations to the War of 1812. Volume 2" by A. T. Mahan is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work examines the influence of naval power on the events and strategies during the War of 1812, with a particular focus on key naval engagements and the broader implications of maritime supremacy. It delves into how the control of the seas shaped military outcomes, reflecting on the lessons that can be drawn from the interplay of maritime strategy and warfare. The opening of the second volume begins with a detailed recounting of naval operations during the winter of 1812-1813. It highlights Commodore William Bainbridge's squadron's strategic maneuvers and examinations of naval engagements, specifically between the "Constitution" and the "Java," as well as the "Hornet" and "Peacock." Mahan discusses the evolving British blockade along the Atlantic coast and its constraining impact on American naval operations. Through these initial analyses, the text sets the stage for understanding the broader maritime dynamics and strategic considerations of the war as it unfolds in subsequent chapters.
The Gulf and Inland Waters The Navy in the Civil War. Volume 3.
"The Gulf and Inland Waters" by A. T. Mahan is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work focuses on the naval operations that took place during the American Civil War within the vast network of Gulf and inland waters, particularly examining the strategic significance of the Mississippi River. The book aims to shed light on the complexities and challenges faced by the Union forces in their efforts to control these waterways and manipulate them for military advantage. The opening of this narrative establishes the geographical boundaries and importance of the region, commencing with a detailed description of the Gulf of Mexico and the Mississippi River. It emphasizes the necessary dual strategy employed by the National Government during the war: to navigate crucial river routes while enforcing a blockade along the coast. Mahan discusses the pivotal role of various naval figures, including the command structure and the fleet's composition, focusing on the early phases of naval engagement as fine details emerge concerning battles, ship types, and tactics. This sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the intense maritime conflicts that shaped the Civil War's course from both strategic and operational perspectives.
Admiral Farragut
"Admiral Farragut" by A. T. Mahan is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work explores the life and career of David Glasgow Farragut, focusing on his notable achievements as a naval commander during pivotal moments in American history. The text delves into his early life, his family's background, and the events that led to his prominence in the United States Navy. The opening of the book provides an insightful look into Farragut's family lineage, notably detailing his father's Spanish heritage and service in the Revolutionary War. It traces his formative years, highlighting critical experiences that shaped his character, such as his encounters with notable naval figures and the influences that guided him toward a career in the Navy. Mahan emphasizes not only Farragut's professional journey but also the personal influences that molded him into one of the most celebrated admirals in American history.
Story of the War in South Africa, 1899-1900
"Story of the War in South Africa, 1899-1900" by A. T. Mahan is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The text provides a detailed overview of the South African War, focusing on the military strategies and geographical context surrounding the conflict. The book likely delves into the events leading up to the war and the key military operations that took place during this period, analyzing the factors that influenced the outcomes of battles and the broader implications of the war. The opening of the narrative sets the stage by discussing the historical and geographical background of South Africa, detailing how its remoteness shaped its colonial development and the dynamics between the British and the Boer populations. Mahan explains the strategic significance of various locations and how they influenced military movements during the war, presenting the landscape as a critical player in the unfolding narrative. He contextualizes the conflict within the larger scope of colonial aspirations and military logistics, hinting at the tensions that erupted into the full-scale war that followed.
Lessons of the war with Spain and other articles
"Lessons of the War with Spain and Other Articles" by A. T. Mahan is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The collection explores the military and naval dimensions of the Spanish-American War, focusing particularly on the lessons learned and the implications for naval strategy and national security. Mahan's discussion emphasizes the importance of naval power and fortification in modern warfare. The opening of the book sets the stage for Mahan's analysis by discussing the context and motivations behind the war with Spain, acknowledging the complexities of military actions and strategies involved. He highlights the importance of understanding military and naval matters for the general public, as this knowledge fosters a more informed and prepared citizenry. Additionally, Mahan critiques the initial strategic decisions made during the conflict, particularly relating to targeting and resource allocation, underscoring the significance of coastal defense and the interplay between land forces and naval operations. Through these insights, the author aims to provide a deeper understanding of maritime strategy and the pressing national interest in maintaining a robust naval capability.