A Maritime History of the American Revolutionary War: An Atlantic-Wide Conflict over Independence and Empire [Hardcover]

Any reader interested in the American Revolutionary War will nevertheless find this interesting work to offer a refreshingly different spotlight on the subject, and one that illuminates the maritime operations and issues of all sides involved. -Nautical Research JournalWhile many books have been written on the naval history of the Revolution, this is one of the first to treat it in its entirety as an Atlantic-wide conflict. While its geographical scope is vast, it features overlooked aspects of the war in which sloops and barges fought, actions which proved to be as decisive as the familiar ship of the line confrontations. It is also history from the bottom up, emphasizing the role of the crew as much the not always heroic officers. From naval perspective the rebellious colonies did not gain a military victory, though Benjamin Franklin was able to secure their independence at the peace table in Europe. The final chapter on the Royal Navys evacuation of white and black loyalists, will be examined in more detail in the authors forthcoming Pen & Sword book.A detailed look at the American Revolutionary War as an Atlantic-wide conflictExamines overlooked aspects of the war in which sloops and barges foughtDetails the role of the crew as well the officersFirst of two books on the subject with the second taking a detailed look at the Royal Navy's evacuation of White and Black loyalistsA work of thoroughly impressive scholarship that is thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and presentation& highly recommended.Corbett makes it his goal to bring the story under one cover and without impudence. His matter-of-fact style leaves no room for nationalistic interpretation& Corbett proves that the maritime history of the war was, indeed, worthy of in-depth study, and that the war was much more than just what happened on the fields at Yorktown and Saratoga.&[readers] will find an immense amount of detail about British and American maritime infrastructure, operations aló¢