The Naval Chronicle: Volume 39, January-July 1818

The Naval Chronicle, published in 40 volumes between 1799 and 1818, is a key source for British maritime and military history. This reissue is the first complete printed reproduction of what was the most influential maritime publication of its day. The subjects covered range from accounts of battles and lists of ships to notices of promotions and marriages, courts martial and deaths, and biographies, poetry and letters. Each volume also contains engravings and charts relating to naval engagements and important harbours around the world. Volume 39 (1818) includes an 'autobiographical' memoir, allegedly written on St Helena by Napoleon. The financial concerns of a post-war navy are obvious. William Wilberforce was involved with a committee set up for the relief of the thousands of destitute former sailors in London. Concerns were expressed about the building up of the American navy, and appeals made for the ending of impressment.