History of Merchant Shipping and Ancient Commerce - Volume 2

The shipowner and politician William Schaw Lindsay (181677) combined a wealth of personal experience with a meticulous approach to research. Originally published in 18746 this is his authoritative four-volume history of the world of ships and maritime trade. Its coverage ranges from the legend of Noah''s Ark through ancient commerce and the colonising expeditions of the middle ages to the progress brought about by the introduction of steam to the shipping of Lindsay''s own day. Details on construction and performance sit alongside explanations of the customs and superstitions of seamen complemented by full accounts of many important nautical events. Volume 2 encompasses Vasco da Gama''s expeditions the Spanish Armada and a discussion of the varying fortunes of the East India Company. Evident throughout the work are Lindsay''s practical knowledge and enthusiasm for his subject.