Books by Julian Corbett

In his excellent book explaining naval strategy, Julian S. Corbett examines sound maritime strategy. Crucially, he advances the view that navies could perform much better if their role in assisting land warfare and amphibious forces were increased.Writing in the early 20th century, Corbett draws upon centuries of naval battles and identifies several common strains. The development of war strategies at sea often entailed trial and error - the author elects to explain how strategy evolved as much from calamity as practice. How naval force should be assembled, how it should form up, and how concentrations and dispersal of ships should be organized each receive discussion.Although naval warfare has substantially changed since this book's original publication, it continues to be consulted for its timeless and sound advice. Corbett's era predated the extensive use of submarines and aeroplanes in naval combat, but his conclusions remain sound and sought after even in the tutoring of modern maritime strategy.

George Monk - or Monck - is one of the pivotal figures of English history. Born into the west country squirarchy, Monk went abroad as a soldier of fortune, gaining valuable military experience in Spain, France and the Netherlands. When the English Civil War broke out Monk's first allegiance was to the Royalist cause. Sent to Ireland to put down a rebellion, he became Governor of Dublin. Captured by the Roundheads at the battle of Nantwich, Monk spent two years in the Tower writing a military treatise before Parliament sent him back to Ireland. Having switched sides, he became a loyal Parliamentarian, becoming especially close to Cromwell. He was at the Protector's side at the battle of Dunbar, and was left in Scotland to complete the campaign and subdue the Scots. After Cromwell's death Monk remained in Edinburgh with his army, and skilfully played his cards as opinion shifted towards the restoration of the monarchy. Bringing his army south, Monk was instrumental in bringing about the Restoration of Charles II in 1660. A grateful King made him Duke of Albemarle and granted him lavish titles and lands - including America's modern north and south Carolina. As well as his soldiering, Monk, who died in 1670, commanded the English Fleet during the first and second Anglo-Dutch naval wars. He was also founding Colonel of the oldest regiment in the British Army - the Coldstream Guards. This biography, published in 1904, is a reliable and concise Life of a key - but often underrated - figure in England's political, military and naval history.