The Oxford Encyclopedia of Maritime History

Among the things connected with maritime history in this impressive reference are long, suitably seamy entries on seafarers ashore, fascinating descriptions of seaports around the world, the very different success stories of such leaders as Captain Cook and the pirate Barbarossa, sea wars between nations, the technical features of ships and navigation, and the many writers and painters associated with sea scenes and tales. Many entries are biographical. Entries are also devoted to the stories and features of famous ships, the uses and types of ships, and ship-related industries. B&w illustrations are included throughout. The entries, which include cross references and bibliography, are accessible to the general reader and the undergraduate student. Hattendorf teaches maritime history at the U.S. Naval War College; the contributors are scholars and specialists worldwide. Annotation c2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

John B. Hattendorf is the Ernest J. King Professor of Maritime History and Chairman, Maritime History Department, U.S. Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island. He holds degrees in history from Kenyon College, Brown University, and the University of Oxford. He has been awarded an honorary doctorate of humane letters and the Caird Medal of the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich. Hattendorf currently serves as President of the North American Society for Oceanic History.