The Naval War of 1812 - Softcover

Roosevelt, Theodore

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1537786628 ISBN 13: 9781537786629

Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2016

Synopsis

This edition of Theodore Roosevelt's thorough and detailed work on the naval engagements in the War of 1812 includes all of his original tables, lists, diagrams, appendices and notes.

As the future President's first book, The Naval War of 1812 shines as a fine example of military history. Commonly overlooked by historians to this day, the 1812 war's naval engagements form a seldom discussed history. Owing to Theodore Roosevelt's accessible style of writing, what might otherwise be a dry or ponderous subject is made exciting, enlightening and accessible.

Published in 1882, two years after Theodore Roosevelt had graduated from Harvard University, this book is the result of its author seeking a challenge for his intellect and research capacities. Combing archives for British and American documents, Roosevelt strove for neutrality, presenting the facts and outcomes of each battle with the impartiality of a professional historian.

The book begins by introducing the politics of the early 19th century, and the grievances between Great Britain and the United States which resulted in the war. Unflinching in his criticism of the USA's lack of preparedness, Roosevelt lays much of the blame at the feet of Thomas Jefferson, who declared war as a means of resolving trade disputes whilst lacking the military might to defeat Britain.

We then see an episodic account of the battles, arranged chronologically between the years of 1812 and the war's conclusion in 1815. Each battle is considered in turn, with the naval manoeuvres, equipment, battle commanders, and casualties noted. Sketched diagrams accompany several of the engagements, while charts arrange and compare various numerical details.

Roosevelt is careful to note the various specifications of the ships and their guns, gathered during his ample researches. The weight and type of the shot used, the design of the individual vessels, and the competence and experience of the commanders on both sides are detailed. Aged just twenty-three when he published this work, Roosevelt was lauded for his understanding and accurate presentation of naval terminology.

About this title

From the Inside Flap:

Published when Theodore Roosevelt was only twenty-three years old, The Naval War of 1812 was immediately hailed as a literary and scholarly triumph, and it is still considered the definitive book on the subject. It caused considerable controversy for its bold refutation of earlier accounts of the war, but its brilliant analysis and balanced tone left critics floundering, changed the course of U.S. military history by renewing interest in our obsolete forces, and set the young author and political hopeful on a path to greatness. Roosevelt's inimitable style and robust narrative make The Naval War of 1812 enthralling, illuminating, and utterly essential to every armchair historian.
The books in the Modern Library War series have been chosen by series editor Caleb Carr according to the significance of their subject matter, their contribution to the field of military history, and their literary merit.

About the Author:

In addition to his political accomplishments, Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919), the twenty-sixth president of the United States, is known for his achievements as a naturalist, explorer, hunter, soldier, and author.

About this edition

• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
• Publication date: 2016
• ISBN 10: 1537786628
• ISBN 13: 9781537786629
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 168