Subject
United States -- History -- Revolution, 1775-1783 -- Naval operations Books
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Charles Oscar Paullin
The Navy of the American Revolution : $b Its administration, its policy, and its achievements
"The Navy of the American Revolution: Its Administration, its Policy, and its Achievements" by Charles Oscar Paullin is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This dissertation explores the organizational structure, legislative developments, and operational strategies of the Continental Navy during the American Revolution. It focuses on the administrative side of the naval operations rather than just the exploits of individual commanders, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the Navy's role in the broader context of the conflict. The opening of the book sets the stage for a detailed examination of the early naval committees formed in 1775, emphasizing the need for a navy amidst the growing conflict with Britain. It introduces the challenges faced by the Continental Congress in establishing a naval force and highlights the debates among representatives regarding the necessity and logistics of creating such a fleet. Paullin establishes a framework for understanding the distinct roles of various naval committees and their interactions with military leadership, laying the groundwork for an exploration of the Continental Navy's significant yet often overlooked contributions to American independence.
A. T. (Alfred Thayer) Mahan
The Major Operations of the Navies in the War of American Independence
"The Major Operations of the Navies in the War of American Independence" by A.T. Mahan is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the naval strategies and battles that played critical roles during the American Revolutionary War. Its primary focus is on how control of naval forces influenced the outcome of critical events in the conflict, drawing connections between maritime power and broader military strategy. At the start of the book, the author establishes the significant impact of naval warfare on the American fight for independence. Mahan introduces the concept that the key to American success lay in its naval engagements, particularly through actions led by figures like Benedict Arnold. The opening chapters outline the early naval campaigns, such as Arnold's actions on Lake Champlain, illustrating how initial successes bolstered American morale and delayed British advances, ultimately setting the stage for alliances with France and Spain that would expand the conflict into a global war. The text reflects Mahan's exploration of military theory, linking past naval operations to future implications for American naval policy.
David Hannay
Rodney
"Rodney" by David Hannay is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the life and legacy of George Brydges Rodney, a prominent English admiral who played a crucial role in establishing British naval dominance during the Age of Sail. Through his early experiences, career, and significant naval battles, the narrative delves into both Rodney's personal life and the broader context of maritime warfare of the time. At the start of the book, the author introduces George Brydges Rodney's lineage and family background, highlighting the stability of the Rodney family in Somersetshire while setting the stage for his eventual rise in the naval ranks. Rodney's early life is chronicled, from his humble beginnings through his entry into the navy as a young boy and the rigors of maritime service during a period of relative peace in England. The opening portion establishes the groundwork for understanding Rodney's character, his experiences at sea, and the realities of naval life in the 18th century.
Unknown
The logs of the Serapis--Alliance--Ariel, under the command of John Paul Jones, 1779-1780
"The Logs of the Serapis—Alliance—Ariel" edited by John S. Barnes is a historical account published in the early 20th century. This volume compiles the logs from significant naval engagements during the American Revolutionary War, focusing on the ships commanded by the legendary naval officer John Paul Jones from 1779 to 1780. The book likely addresses topics related to naval warfare, ship operations, and the personal accounts of the officers and crew involved in these pivotal maritime events. The opening of the book sets the stage for an analysis of Jones' command and the ships involved in his campaigns. It begins with an introduction detailing the significance of the logs, alongside a list of officers and crew from the "Bon Homme Richard," documenting their enlistments and roles. Furthermore, early entries foreshadow the battle with the British ship "Serapis," noting the mustering and operational details of the American ships. The focus on meticulous record-keeping paints a vivid picture of naval life and strategy during the Revolutionary War, highlighting both the challenges faced and the heroism displayed by those under Jones' command.
Charles Herbert
A Relic of the Revolution
"A Relic of the Revolution" by Charles Herbert is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book chronicles the harrowing experiences of American prisoners captured at sea during the Revolutionary War, detailing their sufferings, the names of their vessels, and the circumstances of their captivity in Plymouth, England. The narrative focuses on Herbert himself, who was imprisoned after the capture of the brig Dolton in 1776 and offers an inside look at the lives of these prisoners until their exchange in 1779. At the start of the narrative, the author recounts the capture of the Dolton and the subsequent harsh conditions faced by American sailors aboard British ships. Herbert describes the breach of trust regarding his personal belongings, the dehumanizing conditions in the cable-tier, and the meager rations provided. We are introduced to his fellow prisoners and see Edwin Hunt's demise, along with the difficulties they experienced, such as the spread of disease, harsh treatment, and attempts to maintain hope amid despair. The opening chapters set a tone of resilience and deep personal reflection as Herbert navigates the brutal realities of prison life while yearning for freedom and news from home.
Timothy Boardman
Log-book of Timothy Boardman Kept on Board the Privateer Oliver Cromwell, During a Cruise from New London, Ct., to Charleston, S. C., and Return, in 1778; Also, a Biographical Sketch of the Author.
"Log-book of Timothy Boardman" by Timothy Boardman is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work presents the personal log of Timothy Boardman during his time aboard the privateer Oliver Cromwell, detailing his experiences during maritime engagements and life at sea in 1778. It offers insight into maritime history, personal reflections, and the cultural context of the time, especially regarding the Revolutionary War. At the start of the log, the narrative lays the groundwork for Boardman's experiences, highlighting his service aboard the Oliver Cromwell as part of the fledgling American naval forces. The entries detail naval skirmishes, interactions with enemy ships, and the daily life aboard the vessel, presenting vivid descriptions of the dangers and camaraderie experienced at sea. This initial portion sets an adventurous tone and introduces readers to the challenges faced by sailors during the American Revolution, as well as Boardman's character and observations, which will provide a personal lens through which to view these historical events.
Ezra Green
Diary of Ezra Green, M.D. from November 1, 1777, to September 27, 1778
"Diary of Ezra Green, M.D. from November 1, 1777, to September 27, 1778" by Green is a historical account written during the late 20th century, specifically reprinted in 1971. This book chronicles the experiences of Dr. Ezra Green, a surgeon aboard the Continental ship-of-war "Ranger" under John Paul Jones during the American Revolution. It serves as a firsthand account of naval life and battles during this crucial period of American history. The diary provides an intimate glimpse into the daily life of Dr. Green as he navigates the complexities of war, including the challenges of sailing, encounters with enemy ships, and the hardships faced on long voyages. Starting from Portsmouth, Green details various battles and captures, such as the successful engagements against British vessels, as well as the camaraderie among sailors. He also records unique observations about weather conditions, interactions with the French, and personal reflections on the events unfolding around him. Overall, Green's diary not only highlights his medical duties but also offers a rich narrative of patriotism and human experience during the tumultuous Revolutionary War.
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