1/28/23

This book is NOT a gripping read; however, if you want to know about the establishment of modern Europe, and particularly, the British involvement therein, then this is a must read.

Nicolson must have researched extensively for this authoritative and informative book. It is well served by a plethora of notes which would make it ideal for the serious student but, leaving the in depth stuff alone, it acts as an ideal book for the interested amateur too.

Although, I have nothing with which to compare this work, to confirm its veracity, I am convinced by its representation of a group of diplomats all fighting in part for their country but equally, for their personal kudos. I was long intrigued by the contempt of Shelly and Byron for Lord Castlereagh: I can see, from this description, why he would not be the sort of man to appeal to their avant-garde outlook on life. ( )

The Congress of Vienna, written in 1945, is still by far the best book on this subject. It also gives a good insight in the workings of diplomacy and is very direct and open about the characters of the main players. On top of this it is very well written. ( )

ESSENCE OF HISTORY!! FANTASTIC!! SUPER. Keep this with 'The Great Duke' by A. Bryant. They go together. SEL ( )

Interesante ensayo sobre el sistema naval español durante el siglo XVI. España, una de las tres potencias globales que han sido en la historia de la humanidad, fue la primera a la que se le planteo el problema de armar un sistema de flotas que asegurara su hegemonía y protegiera su comercio a lo ancho de los vastos océanos recién descubiertos. A diferencia de las posteriores potencias globales (Reino Unido y EE.UU.) el primer sistema de armadas español no fue permanente ni estuvo sufragado enteramente por el estado, se trato de un sistema intermitente, según necesidad, que era sufragado por la corona y por los particulares con intereses en el comercio de la Carrera de Indias.

Un buen libro que despertará el interés de aquellos aficionados a los temas navales o al funcionamiento de la corona española en sus años de hegemonía. ( )