The Safeguard of the Sea: A Naval History of Britain 660-1649
by N. A. M. Rodger
A Naval History of Britain (1)
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Description
Throughout Britain's history, one factor above all others has determined the fate of the nation- its navy. N. A. M. Rodger's definitive account reveals how the political and social progress of Britain has been inextricably intertwined with the strength - and weakness - of its sea power, from the desperate early campaigns against the Vikings to the defeat of the great Spanish Armada. Covering policy, strategy, ships, recruitment and weapons, this is a superb tapestry of nearly 1,000 years of show more maritime history. show lessTags
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Member Reviews
While I'm really not qualified to judge the historical content--that's why I read this book, after all--Rodger is more transparent than many authors as he weighs the available sources, deciding what evidence is actually useful. I find this fascinating and, ultimately, convincing.
The book's organized in several parallel tracks--operations, shipbuilding practice, administration, and context--in ways that some will find annoying but others will find useful. The author's also handicapped by the early source material, which inhibits both detailed discussion and analysis. He really comes into his own only around the middle of the book.
Overall: Well-written, admirably researched, and interesting. An excellent source.
The book's organized in several parallel tracks--operations, shipbuilding practice, administration, and context--in ways that some will find annoying but others will find useful. The author's also handicapped by the early source material, which inhibits both detailed discussion and analysis. He really comes into his own only around the middle of the book.
Overall: Well-written, admirably researched, and interesting. An excellent source.
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Author Information
14+ Works 1,758 Members
N. A. M. Rodger is professor of naval history at Exeter University and a fellow of the British Academy; he was formerly Anderson Senior Research Fellow at the National Maritime Museum.
Series
Common Knowledge
Classifications
- Genres
- History, Nonfiction, General Nonfiction
- DDC/MDS
- 359.00941 — Society, government, & culture Public administration & military science Naval forces and warfare Biography; History By Place Europe British Isles -- Ireland & Scotland
- LCC
- DA70 .R56 — History of Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania Great Britain History of Great Britain England History Political, military, naval, and Air Force history.
- BISAC
Statistics
- Members
- 456
- Popularity
- 67,009
- Reviews
- 1
- Rating
- (4.30)
- Languages
- English
- Media
- Paper, Ebook
- ISBNs
- 5
- ASINs
- 5
