Sailors, Ships and Sea Fights Reviewed

I have had this lying around for quite some time as I must have put it on the wrong pile (I keep all books I plan to review separate, but this one certainly went adrift. So, better late than never, here it is.

This is definitely a book for all maritime enthusiasts. Set sail on a scholarly voyage with Sailors, Ships, and Sea Fights, a captivating compendium edited by Nicholas James Kaizer published as part of Helion’s ‘from reason to Revolution’ series. The editor assembles 14 meticulously researched essays from Helion's 2022 Naval History Conference, navigating the tumultuous seas of 18th and early 19th-century naval warfare.

Readers will find three distinct sections: naval operations in Europe, North American maritime endeavours, and the intricate world of naval administration. From the Venetian fleet's strategic evolution during the Second Morean War to the nuanced tactics of French and Spanish support during the 1745 Jacobite uprising, each chapter offers fresh insights that challenge conventional maritime narratives. Notably,  Mr Kaizer’s own analysis of War of 1812 ship-to-ship combats provides a riveting reassessment of Royal Navy commanders' prowess, or occasionally lack thereof, during this era. Given my significant interest in the War of 1812, this is my favourite chapter,

Beyond the actual fighting stuff, the book delves into the often overlooked realms of naval administration and manpower. Essays exploring Admiral Anson's transformative reforms and the realities of sailor recruitment debunk longstanding myths, revealing the unsavoury truths behind the so-called glory of naval life. There are also equality interesting chapters on the evolution of naval law, the use of black pilots and the lives and care of Royal Navy pensioners. The book also includes a good range of black and white illustrations and photographs, together with 11 maps, 26 tables and 16 graphs, which all help the reader understand some of the detail contained in the narrative

While the depth and detail of these scholarly essays may best suit dedicated naval history aficionados, the rich narratives and enlightening perspectives ensure that even the most casual readers will find themselves engrossed.

In essence, Sailors, Ships, and Sea Fights is more than a mere collection of essays; it is a well-crafted and curated volume offering readers knowledge and an engaging reading experience. It certainly floated my boat!

 

ISBN: 978-1-804513-44-6.   356 pages