Subject
Great Britain -- History, Naval -- 19th century Books
Best books
Charles William De la Poer Beresford Beresford
The Memoirs of Admiral Lord Beresford
"The Memoirs of Admiral Lord Beresford" by Beresford is a historical account that was written in the early 20th century. The text provides a firsthand exploration of Beresford's life and career from his entry into the Royal Navy in 1859 to his retirement in 1909. The memoir aims to capture the essence of naval life, historical naval events, and Beresford's personal experiences, offering readers an intimate look into the era of sail and steam in the British Navy. At the start of the memoir, Beresford recounts his fascination with the Navy, sparked by his first sight of the fleet in 1858. He details his early experiences as a naval cadet and his interactions with notable figures, such as Lieutenant Roberts, V.C., who fueled his desire to serve. The narrative vividly depicts the excitement and challenges of naval life, from the rigorous training on the flagship HMS Marlborough to the camaraderie among the crew. The opening chapters set the tone for a reflective journey through his career, touching on themes of discipline, seamanship, and the dramatic changes within the Royal Navy during his service.
A. T. (Alfred Thayer) Mahan
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.
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.
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Memoir of the Life and Services of Vice-Admiral Sir Jahleel Brenton, Baronet, K.C.B.
"Memoir of the Life and Services of Vice-Admiral Sir Jahleel Brenton, Baronet, K. C. B." edited by The Rev. Henry Raikes is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This memoir offers an intimate portrayal of Sir Jahleel Brenton's life, detailing his character, contributions to the British Navy, and his personal beliefs. The book serves as both a tribute to a distinguished naval officer and a moral guide for those in service, emphasizing the blend of professional achievement with personal virtue. The opening of the memoir establishes a dedication to Lady Brenton, expressing the editor’s sincere admiration for her late husband. It elaborates on the editorial intent, which is to showcase not only Brenton's public achievements but also the moral and religious principles that guided his life. The narrative aims to inspire younger members of the navy by presenting a character who exemplified courage, benevolence, and faith, suggesting that such qualities are not incompatible with being an esteemed military leader. The initial chapters set the stage for a detailed recounting of Brenton's early life, family background, and insights into his formative experiences in the naval service.
A. T. (Alfred Thayer) Mahan
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.
A. T. (Alfred Thayer) Mahan
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.
William Henry Giles Kingston
Our Sailors: Gallant Deeds of the British Navy during Victoria's Reign
"Our Sailors: Gallant Deeds of the British Navy during Victoria's Reign" by W.H.G. Kingston is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work highlights the significant contributions and heroic actions of the British Navy during the reign of Queen Victoria, emphasizing naval engagements and their support of military actions. It recounts various naval campaigns, ranging from the capture of Aden to expeditions in China and the ongoing conflicts faced by British forces abroad. The opening of "Our Sailors" presents a vivid portrayal of the British Navy's operations during a transformative period in maritime warfare. Kingston sets the stage by reflecting on the storied history of the Royal Navy, connecting the past achievements of naval warriors to the contemporary deeds of sailors in a rapidly modernizing world. The text begins with the recounting of early campaigns such as the capture of the Arab town of Aden in 1839, illustrating the tactics employed and the notable bravery of the naval personnel involved. Kingston’s narrative quickly moves on to further illustrations of valor demonstrated during various conflicts, laying the groundwork for a detailed exploration of both the triumphs and challenges faced by British sailors during Queen Victoria's reign.
J. H. (John Henry) Hubback
Jane Austen's sailor brothers : $b Being the adventures of Sir Francis Austen, G.C.B., Admiral of the Fleet and Rear-Admiral Charles Austen
"Jane Austen's Sailor Brothers" by J. H. Hubback and Edith C. Hubback is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book captures the lives and adventures of Jane Austen's brothers, Sir Francis Austen and Rear-Admiral Charles Austen, exploring their careers in the British Navy as well as the familial ties that influenced Jane's literary work. The early chapters delve into how family dynamics and experiences shaped her writing, particularly in works like "Persuasion" and "Mansfield Park." The opening of the narrative sets the tone for a deep exploration of the Austen family, emphasizing the strong bonds that Jane had with her brothers. It discusses their upbringing in a close-knit household, the impact of their naval careers on Jane's novels, and highlights personal anecdotes and letters that reveal Austen's reflections on her brothers' lives at sea. As the text unfolds, it paints a vivid picture of both the professional challenges and personal joys experienced by the Austens, bridging their adventures with Jane's literary legacy.
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.
Donat Henchy O'Brien
My adventures during the late war : $b A narrative of shipwreck, captivity, escapes from French prisons, and sea service in 1804-14
"My Adventures During the Late War: A Narrative of Shipwreck, Captivity, Escapes from French Prisons, and Sea Service in 1804-14" by Donat Henchy O’Brien is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This memoir chronicles the experiences of O’Brien, a British naval officer who survived shipwreck, endured captivity, and eluded numerous attempts to return to freedom during the Napoleonic Wars. The book provides a vivid depiction of the struggles faced by O’Brien and his fellow prisoners, making it an engaging read for those interested in maritime history and personal narratives of wartime experiences. The opening of the narrative details the catastrophic wreck of the frigate "Hussar" as it attempts to deliver important despatches amidst treacherous weather conditions. O’Brien describes the crew's desperate attempts to save the ship and their eventual surrender to the French. Following their capture, the prisoners are transported under harsh conditions to various locations in France, where they must navigate the complexities of being captives during wartime while maintaining their dignity and sense of camaraderie. The initial chapters set the stage for O’Brien's subsequent exploits in escaping from captivity and highlight the challenges and resilience of those involved in the naval engagements of the era.
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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