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The Press-Gang Afloat and Ashore   By:

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The Press-Gang Afloat and Ashore by J.R. Hutchinson is a gripping and enlightening historical account that delves into the harrowing world of press-gangs in Britain during the Napoleonic era. With meticulous research and a compelling narrative, Hutchinson skillfully brings to life the often-overlooked stories of those who were forcefully enlisted into maritime service.

Through his detailed exploration, Hutchinson vividly describes the methods and tactics employed by press-gangs throughout Britain. By combining historical records, firsthand accounts, and personal anecdotes, he paints a comprehensive picture of the brutality and complexity surrounding the practice of pressing. From the notorious Crimps who profited from selling men to the Navy, to the unsuspecting victims who faced imprisonment and mistreatment, Hutchinson masterfully captures the range of experiences endured by those who fell under the press-gang's reach.

What sets The Press-Gang Afloat and Ashore apart is its balanced approach to the subject matter. Hutchinson acknowledges the necessity of press-ganging during a time of national crisis, while also delving deep into the systematic abuses that plagued the process. By exploring the perspectives of naval officers, press-gang commanders, sailors, and the general public, the author provides a comprehensive analysis of the pressing system's impact on British society.

The strength of this book lies not only in its well-researched historical content, but also in Hutchinson's engaging writing style. He effortlessly weaves together factual information with captivating anecdotes and personal stories, making the reader fully understand the implications and consequences of the press-gang system. Moreover, the author's ability to convey the emotional turmoil and social upheaval experienced by those affected by pressing is truly remarkable.

It is worth noting that while The Press-Gang Afloat and Ashore is primarily focused on British press-gangs, Hutchinson occasionally touches upon press-gangs in other countries during the same period. This broader perspective adds depth and context to the topic, enhancing the reader's understanding of how pressing developed and evolved across different naval powers.

In conclusion, J.R. Hutchinson's The Press-Gang Afloat and Ashore is an impeccably researched and skillfully written book that shines a light on an often-neglected aspect of 18th-century British history. Through his extensive research and narrative prowess, Hutchinson brings to life the struggles and hardships faced by those forcibly conscripted into naval service. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in maritime history, the Napoleonic era, or the social dynamics of 18th-century Britain.

First Page:

Steve Schulze, Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. This file was produced from images generously made available by the CWRU Preservation Department Digital Library.

THE PRESS GANG AFLOAT AND ASHORE

BY J. R. HUTCHINSON

CONTENTS

I. HOW THE PRESS GANG CAME IN.

II. WHY THE GANG WAS NECESSARY.

III. WHAT THE PRESS GANG WAS.

IV. WHOM THE GANG MIGHT TAKE.

V. WHAT THE GANG DID AFLOAT.

VI. EVADING THE GANG.

VII. WHAT THE GANG DID ASHORE.

VIII. AT GRIPS WITH THE GANG.

IX. THE GANG AT PLAY.

X. WOMEN AND THE PRESS GANG.

XI. IN THE CLUTCH OF THE GANG.

XII. HOW THE GANG WENT OUT.

APPENDIX: ADMIRAL YOUNG'S TORPEDO.

INDEX

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS:

AN UNWELCOME VISIT FROM THE PRESS GANG.

MANNING THE NAVY. Reproduced by kind permission from a rare print in the collection of Mr. A. M. BROADLEY.

THE PRESS GANG SEIZING A VICTIM.

SEIZING A WATERMAN ON TOWER HILL ON THE MORNING OF HIS WEDDING DAY.

JACK IN THE BILBOES. From the Painting by MORLAND.

ONE OF THE RAREST OF PRESS GANG RECORDS. A play bill announcing the suspension of the Gang's operations on "Play Nights," in the collection of Mr. A. M. BROADLEY, by whose kind permission it is reproduced.

SAILORS CAROUSING. From the Mezzotint after J. IBBETSON.

ANNE MILLS WHO SERVED ON BOARD THE MAIDSTONE IN 1740... Continue reading book >>




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