Toll's narrative covers the political, economic, social and technical challenges that faced shipbuilders, sailors, captains and congressmen that managed the development and operation of the fleet.įrom the last chapter: “What was remembered and cherished about 1812, above all, was the fact that America's tiny fleet had shocked and humbled the mightiest navy the world had every known.” This was the most significant outcome of the War of 1812, which is often overlooked by Americans and British alike. The navy grew as the country grew, by fits and starts, by rising to challenges (The Barbary pirates, Britain and France) and learning from mistakes. Begun in the shadow of the British Royal Navy that was thought to be unbeatable, the American Navy faced challenges of every kind. wonderfully atmospheric account, brilliantly researched, full of stirring action and rich with the scent of the sea.Starting in the Adams administration and continuing through to the end of the War of 1812, Six Frigates is a well researched and very readable history of the Navy of the United States. Vibrant and comprehensive, Toll makes an impressive debut.-Gilbert Taylor "Booklist" The result is a thoroughly readable book that adds depth and significance to an important era of American history.-Bruce Linder "San Diego Tribune" Toll has a light touch, much like noted historian David McCullough well-researched facts are carefully balanced by smooth narrative flow. a masterly work.-Chris Patsilelis "Houston Chronicle" solidly grounded in the diplomatic landscape. Sweeping in scope, full of vivid descriptions.
Toll captures the ambivalence of the government, and its reluctance to pay for even a tiny navy, very well.-Joe Mysak "Bloomberg News" Toll tells this grand tale with the political insight of Founding Brothers and the narrative flair of Patrick O'Brian. Would a standing army be the thin end of dictatorship? Would a navy protect from pirates or drain the treasury and provoke hostility? Britain alone had hundreds of powerful warships.įrom the decision to build six heavy frigates, through the cliff-hanger campaign against Tripoli, to the war that shook the world in 1812, Ian W. The founders-particularly Jefferson, Madison, and Adams-debated fiercely. Constitution, the establishment of a permanent military became the most divisive issue facing the new government. Navy.īook Synopsis Before the ink was dry on the U.S.
About the Book From the decision to build six heavy frigates through the cliffhanger campaign against Tripoli to the war that shook the world in 1812, Toll tells the grand tale of the founding of the U.S.
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