by Max Adams (Author)
Max Adams is a TV writer & presenter who has travelled the world to research the story of Admiral Collingwood, Nelson's great friend -- and at one point, rival in love. From the day he went to sea as a 13-year-old boy to his death (at sea) aged 62, Collingwood kept a diary. His diaries, letters and recently discovered log books enable us to hear his story in his own words -- and he was a wonderful writer, descriptive, comic and full of insight. Collingwood fought in almost every major sea battle of the era and rose from humble midshipman to Admiral. He became Britain's 'minister at sea' for five years, effectively running the Mediterranean war effort. His grasp of military, economic and diplomatic affairs was remarkable given his complete lack of conventional education. His service began with the American War of Independence and ended when victory over Napoleon's navy was assured. He wrote the victory despatch the night after Trafalgar. The story of his life is that story of the navy throughout the glory years of the Age of Sail -- the world of fictional admirals Jack Aubrey, Horatio Hornblower and Richard Bolitho.
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 320
Edition: First Edition
Publisher: Orion
Published: 09 Jun 2005
ISBN 10: 029784640X
ISBN 13: 9780297846406
Book Overview: Based on original log books and diaries Collingwood went to sea as a 13-year-old and died at sea aged 62: he literally gave his life to the Navy Collingwood was a close friend of Nelson's for 30 years and this story is full of their correspondence.