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Privateering Books
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Privateering and Piracy in the Colonial Period Illustrative Documents
"Privateering and Piracy in the Colonial Period" by J. Franklin Jameson is a historical account published in the early 20th century. The work compiles a collection of original documents that shed light on privateering and piracy as they relate to the American colonial experience. The book explores the significance of these maritime activities not just as acts of violence or commerce, but as crucial components of economic life and military strategy during the colonial era. The opening of the volume outlines the purpose of the collection, emphasizing the importance and often overlooked aspects of maritime history during the colonial period. It explains that the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America commissioned the work to provide access to previously unprinted historical documents that reflect both privateering and piracy. It highlights the legal distinctions and practical overlaps between these two practices while introducing the documents that will follow, each illuminating different facets of maritime activities and their impact on colonial America.
Charles H. L. (Charles Haven Ladd) Johnston
Famous Privateersmen and Adventurers of the Sea Their rovings, cruises, escapades, and fierce battling upon the ocean for patriotism and for treasure
"Famous Privateersmen and Adventurers of the Sea" by Charles H. L. Johnston is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book encompasses tales of notable privateers and sea adventurers, sharing their daring escapades and the life of peril they embraced on the high seas for various motives including treasure and patriotism. Through the lens of these historical figures, the author seeks to illuminate the spirit of adventure that defined maritime history. The opening of this work sets a vivid scene, capturing the essence of the sea's allure and treachery, as well as the motivations that drove individuals to pursue a life of adventure upon it. Johnston introduces Carlo Zeno, a Venetian warrior, chronicling his early aspirations and subsequent rise as a naval commander. The narrative highlights Zeno's audacity as he faces daunting odds against the Genoese, revealing his leadership qualities and strategic prowess that would come to define his career. The text perfectly encapsulates the tension and excitement of naval battles, foreshadowing the legendary status that would follow Zeno and his contemporaries in maritime lore.
Edward Phillips Statham
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.
Quincy Wright
Prize Money
"Prize Money" by Philip Quincy Wright is a scholarly thesis written in the early 20th century. The work explores the principles and laws concerning the distribution of prize money from captured assets during wartime, focusing primarily on maritime captures throughout various historical contexts. The author examines the evolution of these laws from ancient civilizations through the Middle Ages to more contemporary legal frameworks used by countries, particularly Great Britain. The opening of "Prize Money" introduces the reader to the significance of prize money laws in both historical and contemporary contexts, emphasizing their role in international law and maritime warfare. It outlines the scope of the thesis, showcasing its intent to analyze the character of different countries' prize money laws over time, including their connection to municipal and international regulations. The text begins with reflections on ancient Greek practices regarding prize distribution in warfare, setting a foundation for how these legal principles have evolved and influenced modern interpretations of prize capture and restitution at sea.
William Betagh
A Voyage Round the World Being an account of a remarkable enterprize, begun in the year 1719, chiefly to cruise on the Spaniards in the great South ocean. Relating the true historical facts of that whole affair: testifyd by many imployd therein; and confirmd by authorities from the owners.
"A Voyage Round the World" by William Betagh is an historical account written in the early 18th century. The narrative chronicles a significant maritime expedition that began in 1719, primarily focused on privateering against the Spanish in the South Seas. Betagh aims to give a truthful account of the voyage, contrasting it with what he describes as the deceptive narrative published by Captain George Shelvocke, the original commander of the expedition. The opening portion presents Betagh's intent to provide an accurate recounting of their voyage, which was undertaken by two ships—the "Success" and the "Speedwell". Betagh, serving as captain of marines aboard the "Speedwell", details the lead-up to the expedition, including disagreements among the ship's officers, particularly with the controversial figure of Shelvocke. He asserts that Shelvocke's poor conduct and mismanagement negatively impacted their mission and puts forward evidence from journals and witness accounts, expressing his dedication to restoring the honor of his compatriots and presenting a narrative that corrects the perceived wrongs attributed to their captain.
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