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Confederate Raider 1861-65 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

The Confederate states adopted radical solutions to counter the naval superiority of their opponents. One of the more successful solutions they adopted was the use of commerce raiders. This book describes the reasons which forced the Confederates to resort to commerce raiding, and outlines the way in which these craft were converted or specially built to perform their role. It details not only the way these craft were operated and manned, but also their brutal attacks, daring escapes and climatic battles against the large numbers of Union warships forced to hunt them down.

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American Civil War Fortifications (1): Coastal brick and stone forts (Fortress)

by Angus Konstam

The 50 years before the American Civil War saw a boom in the construction of coastal forts in the United States of America. These stone and brick forts stretched from New England to the Florida Keys, and as far as the Mississippi River. At the start of the war some were located in the secessionist states, and many fell into Confederate hands. Although a handful of key sites remained in Union hands throughout the war, the remainder had to be won back through bombardment or assault. This book examines the design, construction and operational history of those fortifications, such as Fort Sumter, Fort Morgan and Fort Pulaski, which played a crucial part in the course of the Civil War.

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SALERNO 1943: The Allied Invasion of Italy (Campaign Chronicles)

by Angus Konstam

In September 1943, in the first weeks of the Allied campaign to liberate Italy, an Anglo-American invasion force of over 80,000 men was nearly beaten back into the sea by the German defenders in a ferocious ten-day battle at Salerno, south of Naples. This is the story of the tense, bitter struggle around the Salerno beachhead which decided the issue and changed the course of the campaign - for those ten critical days the fate of Italy hung in the balance. Using documentary records, memoirs and eyewitness accounts from all sides, Angus Konstam recreates every stage of the battle at every level as it happened, day by day, hour by hour. His painstakingly researched account offers a fresh perspective on a decisive battle that has been neglected by British and American historians in recent years, and it gives a fascinating insight into the realities of warfare in Europe 60 years ago.

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Spanish Galleon 1530-1690 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

During the middle decade of the 16th century a new type of sailing vessel emerged, designed to carry the wealth of the Americas to Spain. This was the galleon, and over the next century these vessels would serve Spain well as treasure ships and warships, becoming a symbol of Spanish power and wealth during the period. The development and construction of the Spanish galleon are discussed in this book, and the ordnance and crewing needed to produce and maintain these stately vessels is covered. The author also examines the role of the galleon as a treasure ship, and describes how these ships were manned and fought in action.

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Tudor Warships (1): Henry VIII's Navy (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

Tudor Warships (I)

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Atlas of Medieval Europe

by Angus Konstam

The image of armored knights and elaborate castles is put into its true historic perspective with Atlas of Medieval Europe. The centuries-long historic era is traced from its stagnant origins in the Dark Ages, through the spread of religion, the Norman conquest, and the Crusades, to the development of towns, trade, science, and art that gave birth to the Renaissance. The course of the medieval period is divided by century and theme, detailing the evolution of the continent and constant influences such as war and religion. Unique maps illustrate the geography of battlegrounds, trade centers and routes, and empire territories, while a continuous timeline highlights key events and people. Atlas of Medieval Europe is rounded out by special studies which highlight subjects in the political, military and cultural arenas, and is illustrated by a wealth of photographs and contemporary paintings.

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The Forts of Celtic Britain (Fortress)

by Angus Konstam

FORTS OF CELTIC BRITIAN

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Union Monitor 1861-65 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

Union Monitor 1861-65

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Historical Atlas of the Viking World (Historical Atlas) (Historical Atlas)

by Angus Konstam

About AD 800, mysterious long-ships made their first appearance along the North Sea coast of Britain. From Shetland to the Thames, these raiding ships appeared out of the sea mists, carrying warriors so fierce that no one could stand against them. By the middle of the 9th century, these raiders began to establish settlements, and the raids continued, from Norse bases in Orkney, Ireland, and the Isle of Man. The raiders eventually became rulers, creating Scandinavian colonies in Normandy, England, and Ireland. Around the same time, a few Viking explorers ventured across the Atlantic to America, while others sailed south to Africa, into the Mediterranean, and through the European river systems deep into Russia. This book chronicles their achievements, drawing on archaeological evidence as well as the rich source of Norse Sagas and mythology.

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British Motor Torpedo Boat 1939-45 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

During the Second World War, flotillas of the Royal Navy's Motor Torpedo Boats and other coastal forces fought a deadly war for control of the English Channel and the North Sea. These small, fast boats attacked enemy convoys, escorted freighters, landed secret agents and even raided enemy ports. Unsung heroes, these craft and their tiny crews helped stave off defeat in the dark days of 1940. The same vessels then took the fight to other waters, and by the end of the war, British MTB's had seen service in the Mediterranean, the Baltic and the Far East. This book examines the development and operation of these frail, sleek little warships, and describes the way they were manned and how they fought.

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Historical Atlas of the Crusades (Historical Atlas)

by Angus Konstam

In November 1095, Pope Urban II called on the Christian rulers and knights of Europe to drive the Muslims from the Holy Land and claim Jerusalem back for Christendom. Any Crusader who died in the attempt would be rewarded in Heaven. The response was overwhelming and launched a religious conflict that would last for over three centuries. The Crusades marked a turning point in European history, where the primitive Frankish states of Western Europe first encountered the civilized cultures of the Muslim world. With a Christian enclave carved out in the Middle East, the two cultures enmeshed in a clash where personal ambition and financial reward often overcame religious fervor. Started with pious intent, the Crusades degenerated into a bitter power struggle. This book chronicles the Crusading era and examines its cause, its development, and the people who fought for their faith and for themselves. The study by historian Angus Konstam chronicles their achievements, drawing on the latest historical evidence to weave a medieval tapestry of intense color.

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Pirates - Predators of the Seas: An Illustrated History

by Angus Konstam

Pirates have captivated our imaginations for generations, and the popularity of the recent Pirates of the Caribbean films has planted them even more firmly in our minds. But what were pirates really like? Author Robert Ritchie guides us on a tour of piracy from ancient times through the present, and dispels the false image of pirates created by adventure stories and Hollywood. The truth is, unbelievably, even more intriguing than the fiction. Pirates were usually men (and sometimes women!) who turned to piracy in desperation—to avoid starvation or to save their own lives. They were from countries across the globe, from every social class, and of every race. Their average age was only twenty seven. In this lavishly illustrated book, you will see pirates’ brutal lives and bloody deaths, get a peek at their ships and the lives of their crews, and meet some of history’s most famous and infamous buccaneers. You’ll finally learn the truth about the way they lived and died. Full of color and history and danger, this book is as fun as a Johnny Depp movie—but it’s all true!

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Peter the Great's Army (2) : Cavalry (Men-At-Arms, 264)

by Angus Konstam

By the time of his death in 1725 Peter the Great had placed Russia among the foremost European powers, and had created a military system that has infuenced the European balance of power until the present day. In this companion volume to Men-at-Arms 260, Peter the Great's Army 1: Infantry, Angus Konstam discusses Tsar Peter's cavalry, both the regular troops and irregular forces such as the Cossacks, exploring their composition and effectiveness, and also outlines the development of the Russian train of artillery. The Author's text is complemented by a multitude of illustrations and photographs, including eight full page colour plates by David Rickman.

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Confederate Blockade Runner 1861-65 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

The lifeblood of the Confederacy, the blockade runners of the Civil War usually began life as regular fast steam-powered merchant ships. They were adapted for the high-speed dashes through the Union blockade which closed off all the major Southern ports, and for much of the war they brought much-needed food, clothing and weaponry to the Confederacy.This book traces their operational history, including the development of purpose-built blockade running ships, and examines their engines, crews and tactics. It describes their wartime exploits, demonstrating their operational and mechanical performance, whilst examining what life was like on these vessels through accounts of conditions on board when they sailed into action.

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Union River Ironclad 1861-65 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

At the start of the American Civil War, neither side had warships on the Mississippi River, which was a vital strategic artery. In what would prove the vital naval campaign of the war, both sides fought for control of the river. While the Confederates relied on field fortifications and small gunboats, the Union built a series of revolutionary river ironclads. First commissioned in January 1862, these ironclads spent the next two years battling for control of the Mississippi, fighting in a string of decisive engagements that altered the entire course of the war. This book explains how these vessels worked, how they were constructed, how they were manned and how they were fought.

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Lepanto 1571: The Greatest Naval Battle Of The Renaissance (Campaign)

by Angus Konstam

For much of the 16th century the Mediterranean was a battleground between Christians and Muslims. A decisive battle between two large galley fleets was expected to decide the fate of the entire Mediterranean basin. In August 1571, an Ottoman fleet of some 235 galleys encountered the slightly smaller Christian fleet of the Holy League. In a five hour melee the Christians inflicted a decisive defeat on the Turks. Lepanto was the last great galley fight of all time and one of the most decisive naval battles in history. This book details the course of one of the most crucial military campaigns of the Renaissance.

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Renaissance War Galley 1470-1590 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

For most of the Renaissance period, naval warfare in the Mediterranean was dominated by the war galley, a unique naval vessel for a momentous age. During the struggle for supremacy between Christian and Muslim powers, war galleys formed the backbone of the rival battlefleets. Different regions of the Mediterranean produced their own versions of the war galley, thereby producing a number of variants on the basic design tailored to the needs and resources of particular nations. This book examines the development of the war galley from its classically inspired resurrection in the 15th century until its demise in the early 17th century, providing the first ever in-depth study of this remarkable war machine.

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The History of Shipwrecks

by Angus Konstam

A beautiful, full-color guide to the ships and treasures at the bottom of the sea.

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Buccaneers 1620-1700 (Elite)

by Angus Konstam

Buccaneers 1620-1700

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Privateers & Pirates 1730-1830 (Elite)

by Angus Konstam

Privateers & Pirates 1730-1830

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Historical Atlas of the Celtic World

by Angus Konstam

The remarkable Celtic culture once encompassed most of western Europe; even after centuries of invasion and conquest it flourished in remote corners of the continent. This book is a beautifully illustrated survey of Celtic society, its history and belief, from its origins to the present day. Historical Atlas of the Celtic World traces the development of Celtic religion and mythology, and describes the flowering of their unique metalwork, sculpture, and illumination. The book draws on this superb legacy and interweaves it with a scholarly examination of Celtic culture, landscape, and history, ending in the Celtic revival of the past century. Millions claim a Celtic ancestry and are fascinated by the unique culture of their predecessors. This exquisitely illustrated book provides an expertly crafted view into the Celtic past, while emphasising the relevance of Celtic culture and identity today.

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British Forts in the Age of Arthur (Fortress)

by Angus Konstam

When the Romans left Britain around AD 410 the island had not been fully subjugated. In the Celtic fringes the unconquered native peoples were presented with the opportunity to pillage what remained of Roman Britain. By way of response the Post-Roman Britons did their best to defend themselves from attack, and to preserve what they could of the systems left behind by the Romans. The best way to defend their territory was to create fortifications. While some old Roman forts were maintained, the Post-Roman Britons also created new strongholds, or re-occupied some of the long-abandoned hill-forts first built by their ancestors before the coming of the Romans. Packed with photographs, diagrams and full color artwork reconstructions, this book provides a unique examination of the design and development of the fortifications during the Age of Arthur, analyzing their day-to-day use and their effectiveness in battle. It closely describes the locations that are linked to the most famous warlord of the Dark Ages, the legendary Arthur - Tintagel, Cadbury and "Camelot". Although these great bastions were to eventually fall, for a few brief decades they succeeded in stemming the tide of invasion and in doing so safeguarding the culture and civilization of Post-Roman Celtic Britain.

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Confederate Submarines and Torpedo Vessels 1861-65 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

Conf Sub & Torpedo Vessels 1861

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The History of Pirates

by Angus Konstam

Piracy flourished in the early eighteenth century, producing many of the pirates whose names have gripped our imaginations: Blackbeard, Captain Kidd, and Bartholomew Roberts, to name a few. Yet piracy existed long before Blackbeard's name struck terror in the hearts of merchant seamen - Julius Caesar was captured by pirates - and it still exists today; boats sailing through the South China Sea are regularly attacked by modern-day buccaneers. The History of Pirates traces piracy from the seas of antiquity to the New World and beyond. It is a thorough, authoritative, and memorable portrait of the fascinating world of pirates. Detailed maps bear vivid testimony to the far-ranging exploits of these capricious, sometimes charismatic, and frequently bloodthirsty seadogs and highwaymen of the oceans.

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Historical Atlas of Ancient Greece (Historical Atlas)

by Angus Konstam

From the days of Homer’s Mycenean culture until the final collapse of Ancient Greek civilization, the Greek World has provided an enduring fascination to countless generations. Its language, culture, political systems, philosophy, art and architecture still influence our everyday lives, while the stories of Greek warriors, mighty Gods, and glittering cities have captivated our imagination. This book traces the historical, cultural and political development of the Greeks, who created the first democratic society in the world, and whose empire under Alexander the Great spanned most of the known world. While her citizen soldiers safeguarded Greek civilization when it was threatened by the Persians, Greek writers, poets, architects, politicians and philosophers created a cultural legacy that still endures. In this lavishly illustrated book, the history and culture of this remarkable people are traced, allowing readers a clear and concise insight into the Greek World.

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Pirates 1660-1730 (Elite)

by Angus Konstam

This book gives an accurate picture of the pirates who sailed in the waters of the Caribbean and off the American coastline during the 'golden age' of piracy between 1660 and 1730. It traces the origins of piratical activity in the 16th century and examines the Boucaneer (Buccaneer) culture in Jamaica and Hispaniola. It details what drove individuals to a life of piracy, how they dressed, their weaponry, the ships they used and the codes by which they operated. Whether viewed as villains or victims the Pirates were a major threat to shipping and commerce in the western Atlantic for more than 70 years.

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Poltava 1709: Russia comes of age (Campaign)

by Angus Konstam

Poltava marked the demise of Sweden as a European great power and the rise of Russia. In 1707, the seemingly invincible Charles XII led his army deep into Russia. It was to prove his undoing - the long march eroded the fighting strength of the invaders; a vital supply convoy was lost; and the winter of 1708/9 was the worst in living memory. Drawing upon primary source material previously unseen in the west, Angus Konstam recounts the events, looking in particular at how this battle led to the destruction of the Swedish Army,

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Ghost Ships: Tales of Abandoned, Doomed, and Haunted Vessels

by Angus Konstam

The stories behind the haunted ships that mysteriously roam the seas.

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Mississippi River Gunboats of the American Civil War 1861-65 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

Mississippi River GunboatsCivilWar

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The Pirate Ship 1660-1730 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

Pirate Ships 1660-1730

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Russian Army of the Seven Years War (2) (Men-at-Arms)

by Angus Konstam

This second volume (see MAA 297) by Angus Konstam on the Russian Army of the Seven Years War concentrates on the cavalry, both the regular troops and irregular forces, considering their composition, nature and effectiveness. It also outlines the state of the Russian train of artillery, which was seen as the premier branch of the army and dominated Russian military doctrine throughout the 18th century. As a result of reforms to the, the Russians entered the war with Prussia somewhat wrong footed. The ability of the army to recover from this in the crucible of war is a major part of this story.

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British Battlecruisers 1939-45 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

When war broke out in 1939, only three true battlecruisers remained in the Royal Navy including HMS ‘Hood’, the world's largest and fastest capital ship for much of her life, which would be destroyed in action against the German battleship ‘Bismarck’. Out of the remaining two battlecruisers (‘Repulse’ and ‘Renown’) one was sunk by Japanese aircraft off Singapore, whilst the other served with distinction until the end of the war. This book traces the pre-war development of these spectacular warships, then describes their wartime exploits, using this to demonstrate their operational and mechanical performance. It examines what life was like on these wartime battlecruisers when they sailed into action.

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San Juan Hill 1898: America's Emergence as a World Power (Campaign)

by Angus Konstam

Labelled a 'splendid little war' by Senator John Hay, the Spanish American War was a peculiar event in America's history, provoked as much by the press as by political pressures. Here, aided by superbly detailed maps and artwork, the author deals with the clashes at Las Guasimas and El Caney, the capture of San Juan Hill, and the naval battle and siege of Santiago. The war was to mark the end of Spanish sovereignty in her 'New World', and the establishment of the United States of America as a world power.

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Confederate Ironclad 1861-65 (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

Confederate Ironclad 1861-65

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Peter the Great's Army (1): Infantry (Men-at-Arms)

by Angus Konstam

The figure of Tsar Peter the Great dominated Russia in the 18th century. Within a few decades his reforms had brought about changes from which no section of Russian life remained immune, paving the way for Russia’s emergence as a major military power. By the time of his death in 1725, the man who greeted the birth of his son with the exclamation ‘another recruit’ had forged a dominant European power, and his legacy is still felt today. In this first of two volumes, Angus Konstam examines the organisation, tactics, uniforms and equipment of Peter the Great's infantry troops, in a text complemented by a multitude of illustrations, including eight full page colour plates by David Rickman.

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British Napoleonic Ship-of-the-Line (New Vanguard)

by Angus Konstam

British Napoleonic Ship-of-the-Line

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Historical Atlas of Ancient Greece

by Angus Konstam

From the days of Homer’s Mycenean culture until the final collapse of Ancient Greek civilization, the Greek World has provided an enduring fascination to countless generations. Its language, culture, political systems, philosophy, art and architecture still influence our everyday lives, while the stories of Greek warriors, mighty Gods, and glittering cities have captivated our imagination. This book traces the historical, cultural and political development of the Greeks, who created the first democratic society in the world, and whose empire under Alexander the Great spanned most of the known world. While her citizen soldiers safeguarded Greek civilization when it was threatened by the Persians, Greek writers, poets, architects, politicians and philosophers created a cultural legacy that still endures. In this lavishly illustrated book, the history and culture of this remarkable people are traced, allowing readers a clear and concise insight into the Greek World.

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Sovereigns of the Sea: The Quest to Build the Perfect Renaissance Battleship

by Angus Konstam

Savor the story of the ultimate warship in Sovereigns of the Sea: The Quest to Build the Perfect Renaissance Battleship, which chronicles the history of Sovereign of the Seas, an immensely powerful floating fortress. You will enjoy this gripping tale of an arms race that created and ruined empires, changed the map of the world, and led Europe out of the Renaissance and into the Modern age. Understand how the Sovereign of the Seas became the model for a whole new generation of warships that would dominate naval warfare until the advent of steam power.

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Atlas of Medieval Europe

by Angus Konstam

The image of armored knights and elaborate castles is put into its true historic perspective with Atlas of Medieval Europe. The centuries-long historic era is traced from its stagnant origins in the Dark Ages, through the spread of religion, the Norman conquest, and the Crusades, to the development of towns, trade, science, and art that gave birth to the Renaissance. The course of the medieval period is divided by century and theme, detailing the evolution of the continent and constant influences such as war and religion. Unique maps illustrate the geography of battlegrounds, trade centers and routes, and empire territories, while a continuous timeline highlights key events and people. Atlas of Medieval Europe is rounded out by special studies which highlight subjects in the political, military and cultural arenas, and is illustrated by a wealth of photographs and contemporary paintings.

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Piracy: The Complete History (General Military)

by Angus Konstam

"Also you will find here a more detailed story about some of the most famous pirates in history. Angus Konstam is the pirate expert. He discusses the 'Golden Age of Piracy' & such fascinating characters as Captain Kidd & Blackbeard. He separates the Hollywood-inspired fiction with the realities of piracy."- Neopoprealsim Journal (July 2008)When we think of pirates we conjure up images of Blackbeard and Captain Kidd, or even fictional pirates such as Long John Silver, Captain Hook and Captain Jack Sparrow. These historical characters all hailed from one period. Known as "The Golden Age of Piracy", this period only lasted around a quarter of a century - from around 1700 until 1725. However, piracy has been around a lot longer than that. In fact ever since people started venturing onto the sea, others were waiting to waylay them.Pirate expert Angus Konstam sails through the brutal history of piracy, from the pirates who plagued the Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans to the Viking raids on northern Europe through the golden age of piracy and on to the era of privateers who flourished during a period of constant warring on the European continent. He then examines the West's initial encounters with Eastern pirates off the Chinese coast whose confederations had sprung up in the 17th century and whose actions were severely hampering the West by the 19th century. Finally Konstam examines the phenomenon of the modern pirate, preying on modern super tankers. The reality of piracy is that it is a vicious, often deadly business. By separating the realities of piracy from the Hollywood-inspired fiction, and by tracing the development of piracy through the centuries, this book gives a realistic vision of what piracy actually involves. The book includes approximately 100 color and black & white images, eight maps, a glossary of sea terms, notes on sources and a bibliography.Contents Chapter 1: Piracy in the Ancient World; Chapter 2: Medieval Pirates; Chapter 3: The Sea Dogs of the Renaissance; Chapter 4: Mediterranean Corsairs; Chapter 5: The Buccaneers of the Caribbean; Chapter 6: The Golden Age of Piracy; Chapter 7: The Pirate Round; Chapter 8: The Last of the Pirates; Chapter 9 The Chinese Pirates; Chapter 10: Modern Pirates; Chapter 11: Pirates in Fiction; Conclusion

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Blackbeard: America's Most Notorious Pirate

by Angus Konstam

"A thorough, exciting examination of 18th-century pirate life,with wonderful details." --Publishers Weekly "Interesting and exciting . . . a thoroughly enjoyable chronicle of an interesting life and interesting era." --Booklist The definitive biography of history'smost fearsome and famous pirate Of all the colorful cutthroats who scoured the seas in search of plunder during the Golden Age of Piracy in the early eighteenth century, none was more ferocious or notorious than Blackbeard. As unforgettable as his savage career was, much of Blackbeard's life has been shrouded in mystery--until now. Drawing on vivid descriptions of Blackbeard's attacks from his rare surviving victims, pirate expert Angus Konstam traces Blackbeard's career from its beginnings to his final defeat in a tremendous sea battle near his base at Ocracoke Island. Presenting dramatic accounts of the pirate's very effective tactics and his reputation for cruelty, Konstam offers a fascinating examination of the life and business of piracy and the lure of this brutal and bloody trade.

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The History Of Pirates

by Angus Konstam

The History of Pirates traces piracy from the seas of antiquity to the New World and beyond. It is a thorough, authoritative and memorable portrait of the fascinating world of pirates. Detailed maps bear vivid testimony to the far-ranging exploits of these capricious, sometimes charismatic, and frequently bloodthirsty sea-dogs and highwaymen of the oceans.

Details >>

Buccaneers 1620-1700 (Elite)

by Angus Konstam

Buccaneers 1620-1700

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Historical Atlas of the Viking World (Historical Atlas) (Historical Atlas)

by Angus Konstam

About AD 800, mysterious long-ships made their first appearance along the North Sea coast of Britain. From Shetland to the Thames, these raiding ships appeared out of the sea mists, carrying warriors so fierce that no one could stand against them. By the middle of the 9th century, these raiders began to establish settlements, and the raids continued, from Norse bases in Orkney, Ireland, and the Isle of Man. The raiders eventually became rulers, creating Scandinavian colonies in Normandy, England, and Ireland. Around the same time, a few Viking explorers ventured across the Atlantic to America, while others sailed south to Africa, into the Mediterranean, and through the European river systems deep into Russia. This book chronicles their achievements, drawing on archaeological evidence as well as the rich source of Norse Sagas and mythology.

Details >>

Scourge of the Seas: Buccaneers, Pirates & Privateers (General Military)

by Angus Konstam

In their heyday, the sight of a pirate ship on the horizon would strike terror into the hearts of their intended victims. The colorful yet fearsome reputation of the pirate still resonates today and the sight of the skull and crossbones retains its thrilling power. The lives of the most famous of their brethren have been immortalized, initially in the pamphlets of the time, now in movies and books.Telling the full story of piracy from the "buccaneering era" of the 17th century to the last great piratical wave of the early 19th century, this book explores the generally short and bloody life of the pirate, detailing his ship, weaponry, and codes of behaviour, as well as his most famous exploits. It is the gripping tale of the violent and deadly brigands who roamed the high seas in search of plunder.

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Blackbeard: America's Most Notorious Pirate

by Angus Konstam

"A thorough, exciting examination of 18th-century pirate life,with wonderful details." --Publishers Weekly "Interesting and exciting . . . a thoroughly enjoyable chronicle of an interesting life and interesting era." --Booklist The definitive biography of history'smost fearsome and famous pirate Of all the colorful cutthroats who scoured the seas in search of plunder during the Golden Age of Piracy in the early eighteenth century, none was more ferocious or notorious than Blackbeard. As unforgettable as his savage career was, much of Blackbeard's life has been shrouded in mystery--until now. Drawing on vivid descriptions of Blackbeard's attacks from his rare surviving victims, pirate expert Angus Konstam traces Blackbeard's career from its beginnings to his final defeat in a tremendous sea battle near his base at Ocracoke Island. Presenting dramatic accounts of the pirate's very effective tactics and his reputation for cruelty, Konstam offers a fascinating examination of the life and business of piracy and the lure of this brutal and bloody trade.

Details >>

Historical Atlas of the Crusades (Historical Atlas)

by Angus Konstam

In November 1095, Pope Urban II called on the Christian rulers and knights of Europe to drive the Muslims from the Holy Land and claim Jerusalem back for Christendom. Any Crusader who died in the attempt would be rewarded in Heaven. The response was overwhelming and launched a religious conflict that would last for over three centuries. The Crusades marked a turning point in European history, where the primitive Frankish states of Western Europe first encountered the civilized cultures of the Muslim world. With a Christian enclave carved out in the Middle East, the two cultures enmeshed in a clash where personal ambition and financial reward often overcame religious fervor. Started with pious intent, the Crusades degenerated into a bitter power struggle. This book chronicles the Crusading era and examines its cause, its development, and the people who fought for their faith and for themselves. The study by historian Angus Konstam chronicles their achievements, drawing on the latest historical evidence to weave a medieval tapestry of intense color.

Details >>

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