True Stories of the Perilous Straits: The Florida Keys

by John Viele

Gripping stories during the Age of Sail from the time of Spanish navigators of the 16th century to the end of the Second Seminole War in 1842. Many died in shipwrecks and attacks by natives and pirates as they attempted to navigate the 110-mile sea passage between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean south of the Florida Keys and the Florida Reef. It has been called one of the most dangerous passages in the world. There are accounts of castaway mariners, native divers, privateersmen, pirates, and smugglers.

Genres: History

192 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1999

Reviews

[Turtleback]

I found the book interesting. I would like to do more research on these subjects. All an all I am happy the author compiled this information and presented it with little comment one way or other about the character of these men. The Seminole war segment was a little bit one sided, but he was giving the info from Navy accounts, so they were bound to be. Still how ridiculous it must have been to trudge around, come down with yellow fever... all for what? these Indians must do what we say? Anyway... a decent read, all considered.

[R B]

John Viele's three volumes of Florida Keys history are essential reading for anyone interested in Florida's colorful history. It took some hardy souls to take on the task of settling Florida in those early years. Especially in the beautiful but unforgiving Keys.