An Unofficial 'The Rest Is History' Reading List

517. Nelson: The Hunt for Napoleon (Part 4)

November 28, 2024

Description

In the wake of the Battle of Cape St. Vincent in 1797, Horatio Nelson, though a much acclaimed public hero for his bravery during the battle, is in the doldrums. Having led a harebrained attack on...
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Books Referenced

In These Times: Living in Britain Through Napoleon's Wars, 1793-1815

Author: Jenny Uglow

Context:

Mentioned as a 'brilliant book about Britain and the Napoleonic Wars' that contains letters from country parsons about the period. The hosts mention they will be doing a bonus episode with her about this book.

Nelson: A Dream of Glory

Author: John Sugden

Context:

Referenced multiple times as Sugden's biography of Nelson, described as 'incomparable.' Used as a source for details about Nelson's arrival in Bath, his coat of arms, and the hunt for the French fleet.

Robinson Crusoe

Author: Daniel Defoe

Context:

Mentioned as the book that inspired Captain Alexander Ball to go to sea. The hosts discuss its historical significance in inspiring naval careers.

Greenmantle

Author: John Buchan

Context:

Referenced (as 'Green Mantle' by 'John Buckingham') when discussing rumors of French agents in the East during the hunt for Napoleon's fleet, comparing the scenario to Buchan's adventure novel.