Subject
Great Britain. Royal Navy Books
Best books
Henry Keppel
A sailor's life under four sovereigns, Volume 3 (of 3)
"A sailor''s life under four sovereigns, Volume 3 (of 3)" by Sir Henry Keppel is a naval memoir written in the late 19th century. This concluding volume follows Keppel’s later career across Asia and Africa—combat on China’s rivers, visits to Sarawak, anti-slavery patrols off East Africa, big-game interludes, and service at Court—told in brisk, anecdotal entries that blend operations, travel, and high society. The opening of the volume plunges into Keppel’s firsthand account of the Fatshan Creek action, where his boat is sunk under heavy fire before a renewed assault scatters and captures most of a Chinese junk fleet; he includes a captured proclamation from Admiral Yeh and memorializes fallen and wounded comrades. The narrative then shifts into journal-like notes: a court-martial after the loss of Raleigh, reassignment and movements on the Canton River, a detour to Sarawak with Brooke’s circle and jungle excursions, and onward travel through Singapore and India amid news of honors. Returning to England, Keppel records a whirl of hunting and society, a deft recovery of a stolen officer’s watch, and his first turns as Groom-in-Waiting at Osborne and Windsor with lively court vignettes. He next takes the Cape command in HMS Forte, carries Sir George Grey via Madeira and Rio, shifts to HMS Brisk for an East African cruise that includes edging into Delagoa Bay, a moonlit turtle foray at Europa Island, the seizure of the slaver Manuela, hippopotamus shooting near Zanzibar, and a return to Mauritius to rehoist his flag and stage a mock landing operation.
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.
John Rushworth Jellicoe
The Grand Fleet, 1914-1916 : $b its creation, development and work
"The Grand Fleet, 1914-1916: its creation, development and work" by Admiral Viscount Jellicoe is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the operations and developments of the Grand Fleet during World War I, from its formation at the onset of the conflict until late 1916. Jellicoe, who led the fleet, chronicles the strategic and organizational challenges faced by the Royal Navy while providing insights into naval warfare's evolving nature during this pivotal time. At the start of the narrative, the author introduces his background and the circumstances leading to his appointment as Commander-in-Chief of the Grand Fleet just before the war began. He recalls the tense moments as he took command and highlights the immediate need for effective organization and strategy in a rapidly changing naval landscape. Jellicoe discusses the shifts in naval warfare due to technological advancements and strategic necessities, setting the stage for a detailed examination of the fleet's operations and adaptations throughout the war. The opening portion establishes the historical context and the complexities of naval command, providing readers with a foundation for understanding the subsequent developments in Jellicoe's account.
Archibald Hurd
The Heroic Record of the British Navy: A Short History of the Naval War, 1914-1918
"The Heroic Record of the British Navy: A Short History of the Naval War, 1914-1918" by Archibald Hurd and H. H. Bashford is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the British Navy's actions during World War I, illustrating the significance of naval power and its contributions to the war effort as well as its evolution. The authors aim to provide a comprehensive narrative of naval events while also addressing the broader implications of admiralty for English-speaking nations. The opening of the text sets the stage for the naval conflict that would unfold during World War I. It begins on August 4, 1914, just as tensions are rising in Europe, introducing the circumstances surrounding Britain's naval readiness in the face of impending war. The narrative describes a significant naval mobilization that precedes the declaration of war, laying out the historical context and character of the British Navy's preparations and strategic maneuvers. There's a focus on the psychological and practical aspects of naval warfare, as the text recognizes the resolve of the seafaring tradition in Britain while hinting at the gravitas of the challenges that lie ahead for both leadership and sailors.
Henry Keppel
A sailor's life under four sovereigns, Volume 2 (of 3)
"A sailor''s life under four sovereigns, Volume 2 (of 3)" by Sir Henry Keppel is a naval memoir written in the late 19th century. It presents first-hand campaigning, travel, and diary-like observations from a senior Royal Navy officer, with a strong focus on anti-piracy operations in Borneo and later postings across the globe. Expect riverine warfare, alliances with local leaders such as Rajah Brooke, vivid shipboard life, and social vignettes from ports and drawing rooms alike. The opening of the volume plunges into Keppel’s 1844 Sarawak campaigns with HMS Dido and the steamer Phlegethon: a swift assault on Patusen’s forts, the destruction of pirate strongholds, and a pursuit upriver that topples Seriff Muller’s base. A rash encounter near a Dyak hill-village costs the life of the energetic First Lieutenant Wade, and a brutal mêlée at Karangan brings heavy losses, including the renowned Patingi Ali and Mr. Steward, before the position is carried; throughout, civilians are spared and fugitives aided, while Seriff Sahib is driven into flight. The narrative then shifts to the homeward voyage—storm drama off the Cape, a comic ruse to visit his wife before orders, and paying off the Dido—before settling into dated diary entries of peacetime: publishing the Borneo expedition, levees, hunting and races, studying steam at Woolwich, and lobbying for British footholds such as Labuan.
John Arbuthnot Fisher Fisher
Memories, by Admiral of the Fleet, Lord Fisher
"Memories" by Admiral of the Fleet Lord Fisher is a collection of personal recollections and reflections written in the early 20th century. The book offers insights into the author's experiences in naval leadership and his interactions with key historical figures, particularly during his tenure preceding the First World War. The work reflects on the complexities of military politics and the evolution of naval strategies, providing a unique perspective from one of Britain’s most prominent naval officers. At the start of "Memories," the author emphasizes his reluctance to participate in creating a book, wishing instead to communicate his thoughts directly, underscoring the limitations of the printed word in capturing the vibrancy of lived experience. He begins with a chapter dedicated to King Edward VII, detailing the King’s unwavering support for Fisher during significant naval reforms despite political opposition. Lord Fisher’s narrative is interspersed with anecdotes and critiques, illustrating his candid views on military strategy, the dynamics of power within the naval hierarchy, and the broader political context of the time, particularly regarding the looming conflict with Germany. The opening sets the tone for a memoir that prioritizes personal insight over chronological coherence, with a strong focus on the pivotal moments and personalities that shaped British naval history.
Arthur Joseph Hungerford Pollen
The British Navy in Battle
"The British Navy in Battle" by Arthur Joseph Hungerford Pollen is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work reflects on the operations, challenges, and strategies of the British Navy during World War I, with an emphasis on the experiences and sacrifices of the naval personnel. It serves as both a tribute to the naval forces and an exploration of the lessons learned from key naval battles and crises. The opening of the book sets a somber yet proud tone, dedicating heartfelt greetings and gratitude to the members of the Royal Navy and the Naval Reserve. Pollen acknowledges the hardships faced by these men during the Great War and expresses a deep sense of national pride in their achievements and sacrifices. The first chapter provides a retrospective look at the hope and trepidation surrounding naval engagements, recognizing the accumulation of challenges and the bravery of those who served at sea. Through this dedication, the author immediately situates the reader in the context of wartime urgency and the significance of maritime power, setting the stage for an in-depth analysis of naval warfare to follow.
Henry Keppel
A sailor's life under four sovereigns, Volume 1 (of 3)
"A sailor''s life under four sovereigns, Volume 1 (of 3)" by Sir Henry Keppel is a naval memoir written in the late 19th century. It recounts the author’s early life and long Royal Navy career, blending lively anecdote with first-hand glimpses of global cruising, naval culture, and political events. Expect portraits of ships, shipmates, and admirals; scenes from Madeira to Rio, the West Indies, Mexico, and back; and encounters with figures like Lord Cochrane amid Brazilian independence. The tone is brisk, humorous, and observant, with an eye for both seamanship and society. The opening of the memoir traces Keppel from a perilous infancy and mischievous schooldays in Norfolk to the Royal Naval College and his first commission. He sketches a Whig-tinged family circle at Holkham, processions for Sir Francis Burdett, a tour to Newstead with the Duke of Sussex, Nelson connections, and the rituals and rough fun of cadet life before joining HMS Tweed. The narrative then shifts to sea: voyages to Madeira, Rio, Bahia, and Pernambuco during Brazil’s upheavals, a meeting with Lord Cochrane, and the dramatic refuge of a fleeing Pernambuco leader on board. Further chapters cover River Plate calls and light-hearted midshipmen exploits, a winter run to Halifax with a bishop, West India cruising, Tampico and Vera Cruz (including an alligator episode), Havana, Port Royal, a captured slaver, and an inland visit to Xalapa. It closes this opening stretch with the Tweed’s 1827 recommission under Lord John Churchill, a near-miss with the Navarino campaign, and a fresh outward passage via Madeira and the Cape Verdes.
John Arbuthnot Fisher Fisher
Records, by Admiral of the Fleet, Lord Fisher
"Records" by Admiral of the Fleet Lord Fisher is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work primarily focuses on the author's naval career and various reflections on military strategy, particularly regarding British maritime power. It draws on a significant blend of personal anecdotes and observations, reflecting on both historical events and the evolution of naval warfare. The opening portion introduces the author's background and early years, setting the tone for the memoir. Fisher recounts his family history, including colorful anecdotes and notable ancestors, interspersed with humor and personal reflections. He discusses his entrance into the Navy, the challenges he faced as a young midshipman, and the rigorous training and conditions aboard ships at that time. Not only does this segment provide insight into Fisher's character and development, but it also paints a vivid picture of naval life during the mid-19th century, establishing a foundation for the broader themes of naval strategy and leadership that will unfold throughout the text.
John Leyland
The Achievement of the British Navy in the World-War
"The Achievement of the British Navy in the World-War" by John Leyland is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the crucial role and significant contributions made by the British Navy during World War I, illustrating the myriad of tasks and challenges faced by naval forces amid the global conflict. Leyland emphasizes the unseen and often unappreciated efforts of the Navy, which were critical to the success and survival of Britain and its Allies. The opening of the work sets the stage by highlighting the indelible impact the British Navy had on warfare during this tumultuous period. Leyland discusses King George's recognition of the Navy's esteemed reputation, and he reflects on the varying public perceptions regarding the Navy's silent yet significant operations. He traces the history from the war's initiation, mentioning strategic mobilizations and the early challenges faced. The narrative introduces key naval figures like Admiral Sir John Jellicoe and outlines the transformative strategies employed by the British Navy, emphasizing their crucial role in securing supply routes and supporting land operations, thus laying the groundwork for the detailed analyses that follow in subsequent chapters.
Archibald Hurd
The Fleets at War
"The Fleets at War" by Archibald Hurd is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book provides an in-depth examination of the naval strategies and assets of the British and German fleets during the onset of World War I. It likely addresses the critical role of naval power in shaping military outcomes and national confidence in the face of impending conflict. The opening of "The Fleets at War" outlines the significant naval achievements of the British fleet just before the outbreak of hostilities on August 4th, 1914. It emphasizes the rapid mobilization of British naval forces, which were already prepared for war even before the official declaration. Hurd discusses how the British Navy successfully hindered German maritime commerce and ensured the safe transport of the British Expeditionary Force to France, highlighting the pivotal influence of naval power on Britain’s war effort. As the narrative begins, it sets the stage for a detailed exploration of naval policies, fleet compositions, and the broader implications of sea power during wartime.
Rudyard Kipling
A Fleet in Being: Notes of Two Trips With The Channel Squadron
"A Fleet in Being: Notes of Two Trips With The Channel Squadron" by Rudyard Kipling is a naval account written in the late 19th century. The work details the author's experiences aboard a British light cruiser participating in naval maneuvers, showcasing the dynamics of life at sea, the interplay among the crew, and the operational aspects of the naval fleet. Kipling’s narrative likely provides a mix of personal anecdotes and broader insights into naval culture during this time. The opening of the text introduces a seasoned observer stepping aboard a new type of warship, setting the scene for a voyage filled with youthful exuberance and a palpable sense of discovery. It describes a lively atmosphere among the crew, filled with young officers ready to undertake the challenging tasks of naval maneuvers. The author notes both the operational complexities of maintaining a line of ships and the camaraderie shared among sailors, providing readers with a vivid portrayal of life on the cruiser amidst the exciting yet daunting preparations for potential conflict. The captivating mix of humor, reflection, and observation serves to engage the reader as Kipling sets forth on his exploration of the royal navy and its spirited men.
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