The Life of Nelson: The Embodiment of the Sea Power of Great Britain

by Alfred Thayer Mahan, Pieter Merwe (Introduction)

The most detailed and noteworthy research biography of Lord Nelson's maritime career, his life at sea, battle strategy, ship innovations, and tours of duty. It remains today, one of the most frequently referenced works on the subject of Britain's late 18th- and early 19th-century naval power. This is the first high-quality facsimile edition ever produced, including reproductions of original pull-out maps (one in two-color). It is also the only single-volume reproduction available.

Genres: History, Biography

764 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1897

About the author

Alfred Thayer Mahan was a United States Navy flag officer, geostrategist, and historian, who has been called "the most important American strategist of the nineteenth century." His concept of "sea power" was based on the idea that countries with greater naval power will have greater worldwide impact; it was most famously presented in his 1890 book The Influence of Sea Power Upon History, 1660–1783. The concept had an enormous influence in shaping the strategic thought of navies across the world, especially in the United States, Germany, Japan and Britain, ultimately causing the World War I naval arms race. His ideas still permeate the U.S. Navy Doctrine.

Reviews

[Matt Buongiovanni · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I have had flattery enough to make me vain, and success enough to make me confident.”

Much of my reading this year has centered around Napoleon, so I figured I might as well give the French a break and hear from the other side of the Napoleonic Wars, and I could not have chosen a better place to start. This is a thrilling biography of a man whose life often sounds more like an adventure novel than the story of a real person. Alfred Thayer Mahan’s prose is occasionally weighed down by the style of the late 19th Century, but the book generally flows very well. Mahan’s extensive research shines through on every single page of this work, and he provides rich and detailed descriptions of every scene in Nelson’s life that a reader could possibly wish to learn about. In addition to his rich descriptions and knack for providing readers with context from the lives of Nelson’s contemporaries, Mahan regularly provides lucid (and beautifully written) analyses of the historical shockwaves that would emanate from Nelson’s actions.

The density of Mahan’s research is occasionally a detriment—Nelson, when he wasn’t battling his enemies at sea, was often depressed and bored; this, unfortunately, is also the effect of some of the chapters that revolve around his time away from his ships. Mahan’s discussion of Nelson’s various political quarrels (not to mention, his breathless horror at Nelson’s affair) gets a little bit tiresome at times.

Still, his gripping accounts of Nelson’s battles—especially Trafalgar—more than make up for the occasional slow points. The last chapter of this book was as thrilling as any of the other naval battles described throughout, and it was further strengthened by the genuinely moving accounts of Nelson’s death that make up the biography’s last few pages. This book isn’t perfect, by any means, but it’s a must-read for anyone with a passing interest in this period of naval history.

[David Trawinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though this book was written before 1900, I found it to be so interesting. A poor preacher’s son sets to sea with his Uncle at the age of 12, goes on to lose his right arm and right eye over his career which concludes with his losing his life at the pinnacle of his greatest victory. All the while he falls head over heels for another man’s wife and leaves his own wife completely cut off at the height of his successes. Sounds like a recipe for a modern day streaming service, doesn’t it?

[Keith · Rating 4 out of 5]

It did seem a bit long-winded at times, but it was worth the read.

[Miles Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had a subtle but significant influence on history. Mahan's use of language is unique and inspires awe. The Life of Nelson includes a gripping analysis of how Horatio Nelson crossed the T at the Battle of Cape St. Vincent.

[Richard Ferguson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a classic biography by one of the greatest maritime writers, Alfred Thayer Mahan. His classic on sea power is studied to this day by experts. His delving into the character traits (both good and bad) of Lord Nelson is masterful. Technical knowledge and depth of research shines through. Highly recommended for students of history and psychology, especially military history. Superb.

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heavy read, but worth the effort. For those who like to highlight phrases on Kindle, you will find yourself with a lot of great material. I enjoyed going back and re-reading the highlights more than the book itself.

[Lanea · Rating 3 out of 5]

not really sure how to rate this, excellent description of nelson and navel warfare & some strategy

but so obsessed with unrelated detailed descriptions etc, naturally feels very old fashioned but in a somewhat unconvincing style