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Churchill and Sea Power First Edition
Author(s): Christopher M. Bell (Author)
- Publisher: OUP Oxford
- Publication Date: 25 Oct. 2012
- Edition: First Edition
- Language: English
- Print length: 464 pages
- ISBN-10: 0199693579
- ISBN-13: 9780199693573
Book Description
The book also examines Churchill’s evolution as a maritime strategist over the course of his career, and documents his critical part in managing Britain’s naval decline during the first half of the twentieth century. Churchill’s genuine affection for the Royal Navy has often distracted attention from the fact that his views on sea power were pragmatic and unsentimental. For, as Christopher M. Bell shows, in a period dominated by declining resources, global threats, and rapid technological change, it was increasingly air rather than sea power that Churchill looked to as the foundation of Britain’s security.
Editorial Reviews
Review
Ranging over events covering nearly half a century, this is an important addition to the already vast literature on Churchill as a military leader. Bell’s volume rewards close reading. His final summation is measured and warranted. (
Christopher H. Sterling, Finest Hour)Bell’s volume is a far-ranging, elegantly written and insightful analysis of Churchill’s interest in seapower across the five decades that he was a major public figure. Perhaps surprisingly, Christopher Bell’s reappraisal of Churchill demonstrates that detailed scrutiny even of the most famous of personalities can still pay major dividends. (
Matthew Seligmann, Journal of Strategic Studies)Bell’s findings are based on extensive scholarly research: the Ten Year Rule episode, for instance, which reveals Churchill’s peripheral role in the decision-making, is supported by numerous primary and secondary sources. (
Military History Monthly)This is a powerful and original case for the defence, based on extracting Churchill from the myth-history and putting him back into a realistic account of his times… Overall this is a cogent and important study based on a great deal of research. (
N. A. M. Rodger, The Journal of Military History)Even Churchill’s greatest critics will have to make some revisions of their opinions after reading this important book. (
Eric Grove, author of The Royal Navy Since 1915)A very well argued defence of Winston Churchill against those who rebelled against his immense post-World War II prestige … it is authoritative and rigorous, and a good read for naval history buffs. (
Conrad Black, Standpoint)What makes this book so readable and rewarding is its taut, paced development of Churchill as thinker, politician and Whitehall servant-we see his strategic world-view developing and we read his remarkably incisive, beautifully wrought appreciations of strategic dilemmas and problems. He was a vivid writer and clear thinker, and Bell has done the profession (and Churchill fans everywhere) a great service with this captivating text. (
Geoffrey Wawro, History Book Club)
