The Naval Chronicle

Book excerpt: 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 40, published in 1818, contains the conclusion of an autobiography attributed to Napoleon. It discusses the practice of impressment, and includes reports from an Arctic expedition led by Captain Ross in search of the North-West Passage, as well as an article disputing its existence. Other items include a biography of Sir John Jennings and an account of the death and funeral of Queen Charlotte.