Author

Edward Phillips Statham

Died 1921

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Subjects

Books by Edward Phillips Statham

The Story of the "Britannia"
 The training ship for naval cadets. With some account of previous methods of naval education, and of the new scheme of 1903.

"The Story of the 'Britannia'" by Edward Phillips Statham is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book provides a detailed narrative about the evolution of naval education in Britain, particularly focusing on the training ship, the 'Britannia', and the various methods employed in the training of naval cadets over the years. At the start of the book, Statham reflects on the historical context of naval officer entry into service, emphasizing the haphazard and often absurd methods of the 18th and early 19th centuries. He recounts the experiences of young aspirants like the son of the renowned Captain Robert Harris, who was one of the first cadets trained under a newer, more structured system that aimed to improve the qualifications of naval officers. The opening portion highlights the challenges of past training regimes while setting the stage for the transformations that were necessary for the future of the Royal Navy.

Privateers and Privateering

"Privateers and Privateering" by Commander E.P. Statham, R.N. is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the world of privateering, focusing on its incidents and notable figures, particularly during the 18th century. Statham intends to present true stories rather than a systematic history of the subject, offering readers insights into the adventurous yet morally ambiguous lives of privateers. The opening of the narrative introduces the concept of privateering, distinguishing it from piracy by explaining that privateers operated under commissions from sovereign states, while pirates did not. Statham underscores the romanticism often associated with privateers, while also acknowledging the darker aspects of their exploits, pointing to the complexities of their actions in wartime. He begins to outline the origins of privateering and how it evolved, setting the stage for tales of individual privateers and their battles at sea, starting with historical figures like Andrew Barton and events from the 16th century.