Product Description

The accepted interpretation of Britain's wartime role as an island sea power is challenged by Correlli Barnett's brilliant demonstration that the dependence on seashore imports of food and raw materials, together with the obligations of Empire, were less a form of strength to Britain than a weakness. Topics discussed in this book range from strategic debates in London and Washington to gripping descriptions of the Royal Navy in action: the remorseless struggle against the U-boat in the Atlantic, the desperate convoy battles in the Mediterranean and the Arctic, and the battles in the Far East. It weaves in the rivalry between Allied and German technology an the all-important secret war of the cryptographers. "This outstanding military historian has turned to maritime war and written an authoritative, meticulously researched and stirring account of the Royal Navy's part in World War II. His analysis shows clearly how vital it was for the war at sea to be won before land and air campaigns could bring final victory".

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #730856 in Books
• Published on: 2000-07-27
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 1104 pages

Customer Reviews

A very detailed and interesting read.
This book covers the Royal Navy in all theaters. As well as providing a desciption of almost all actions, it gives a critique of the technonlogy and tactics involved. When read along with Churchill's war volumes, it highlights the naive nature of Churchill's orders and the fatal consequences. This book gives a very detailed, yet very easily, read history of the Royal Navy during WW2.

Brilliant summation of WW2 for the RN
Enjoyed the reading and the facts - so much did happen, but so much more could have happened both positive and negative as far as the RN is concerned. A definite must for those interested in Naval history.

The complete story of the RN in WW2, on the line & on shore
This book gives a total and comprehensive review of the Royal Navy during WW2. It covers all aspects of the service, and provides detailed insights into every theatre of operation from Norway to the Med, the Far East to the monumental battles of the Atlantic. Individual actions, such as the sinking of the Bismark are also incredibly detailed. This book is over 900 pages, and this is mostly due to the level of detail which the reader is provided. Whilst most of the book is fasinating there are extended passages which detail the most inner adminstrative workings and politics of the navy at the highest levels. These can be heavy going and even regarded as monotonous in the extreme. However, the author has a proven track record for being precise and methodical, so you know that what you are reading is as good as a first hand account in many cases.