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Dundonald, Thomas Cochrane, Earl of, 1775-1860 Books
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Thomas Cochrane Dundonald
The autobiography of a seaman (volume 2 of 2)
Compiled by G. B. Earp from oral or written material furnished by Lord Dundonald and his secretary, William Jackson.
Thomas Cochrane Dundonald
The autobiography of a seaman (volume 1 of 2)
"The autobiography of a seaman (volume 1 of 2)" by Earl of Thomas Cochrane Dundonald is a naval autobiography written in the mid-19th century. It charts the celebrated but contentious career of a British admiral known for daring operations, outspoken reformism, and political battles, set chiefly against the backdrop of the Napoleonic wars. This first volume focuses on his early life, family background, formative service, and the lead-up to the celebrated but disputed action at Aix Roads, alongside his criticisms of naval administration. The opening of the work presents a dedication to the Westminster electors and a forthright preface outlining its scope: service up to the Basque Roads attack, the ensuing court-martial of Lord Gambier, years of exclusion from command, and eventual restorations of rank and honours. Cochrane thanks prominent supporters (notably the Marquis of Lansdowne and Lord Brougham) and credits his wife’s direct appeal to the sovereign for a key turn in his fate, then states a “moral” about the personal costs of truth-telling and reform. An introductory chapter traces the Dundonald lineage—from medieval Cochranes and the rise and fall of Robert Cochran under James III, through staunch Stuart loyalties, civil-war entanglements, and the family’s elevation—before turning to the author’s own beginnings. Chapter I sketches his 1775 birth, the loss of ancestral estates, and his father’s scientific ventures (soda, alumina, British gum, sal ammoniac, white lead, and coal-tar/coke), including an early, accidental demonstration of coal-gas illumination later developed by others; these pursuits, though inventive, ruined the family finances and delayed his entry into the navy.
Thomas Barnes Cochrane Dundonald
The Life of Thomas, Lord Cochrane, Tenth Earl of Dundonald, Vol. I
"The Life of Thomas, Lord Cochrane, Tenth Earl of Dundonald, Vol. I" by Dundonald et al. is a historical account published in the late 19th century that chronicles the life and career of Thomas Cochrane, a notable naval officer and politician in the British Empire. The narrative begins with an examination of Lord Cochrane's early life, including his ancestry and naval exploits, and delves into significant events that shaped his career, including his battles in the Napoleonic Wars, his parliamentary engagement, and the injustices he faced, particularly during the infamous Stock Exchange trial. At the start of the text, we are introduced to Cochrane's impressive lineage and determine that his career, marked by remarkable naval achievements and reforms, began at a young age. The opening portions detail his early naval service, including daring exploits aboard the sloop "Speedy" and the frigate "Pallas", as well as his initial forays into politics. The groundwork is laid for understanding his complex character, driven by a deep sense of honor and justice, which ultimately led him into conflict with authority. The narrative sets the stage for his financial and political struggles, particularly the Stock Exchange trial that would unjustly tarnish his reputation, pointing to the larger themes of sacrifice and resilience that will feature prominently in his life story.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
With Cochrane the Dauntless
"With Cochrane the Dauntless" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book explores the life and exploits of Lord Cochrane, a British naval officer known for his daring actions in South American waters against oppressive forces. The story delves into themes of adventure, courage, and the struggles faced by those fighting for freedom." "At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Lieutenant Embleton, who reflects on his career setbacks following his service under Lord Cochrane. He struggles with providing for his son, Steve, amidst a peacetime navy that offers scant opportunities. Ultimately, Embleton arranges for Steve to join the mercantile navy as an apprentice, imparting the skills he has taught him. The narrative sets the stage for Steve's journey at sea, where he is keen to follow in the adventurous footsteps of his father and Cochrane."
Thomas Barnes Cochrane Dundonald
The Life of Thomas, Lord Cochrane, Tenth Earl of Dundonald, Vol. II
"The Life of Thomas, Lord Cochrane, Tenth Earl of Dundonald, Vol. II" by Dundonald et al. is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The text chronicles the significant events of Lord Cochrane’s life, focusing extensively on his naval career and contributions to the Greek War of Independence in the 1820s. The volume captures his efforts and challenges as he navigates the political and military landscape of Greece during a tumultuous period marked by factionalism and struggle against Ottoman rule. The opening of the volume introduces Lord Cochrane's arrival in Greece in March 1827, detailing his observations of the islands of Hydra and Poros, which were pivotal in the Greek revolt against Turkish domination. As he engages with various Greek leaders, he quickly becomes embroiled in the internal conflicts between factions vying for power, leaving him to navigate these treacherous political waters while aiming for unity and strategic action against the Turks. Cochrane's dedication to the cause is evident as he addresses the need for prompt military action, illustrating both his commitment to Greek independence and the complex dynamics of leadership amidst chaos and rivalry.
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