Privateering and Diplomacy, 1793-1807: Great Britain, Denmark-Norway and the Question of Neutral Ports

This book explores the British-Danish diplomatic debate on privateering and neutral ports during the 1793-1807 period, focusing on the rights and duties of belligerents and neutrals, and the impact of the Dutch change of sides in the war.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 07 July 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book delves into the intricate diplomatic debate between Britain and Denmark-Norway during the period 1793-1807, a crucial era when Denmark-Norway maintained a neutral stance in the war between Britain and France. The British government expressed its strong opposition to the French privateers utilizing Norwegian ports as launch pads for their attacks on the British Baltic Sea and Archangel Trades. However, the Danish government firmly maintained its stance, insisting on keeping the ports open. This contentious issue gave rise to a protracted dispute, encompassing not only the relative rights and duties of belligerents and neutrals but also the violations of the tentative agreement reached between the two governments in 1793.

The book is structured into three main chapters that explore the philosophical debate on privateering and neutral ports. The first chapter delves into the theoretical aspects of this debate, examining the principles and arguments surrounding privateering and the role of neutral ports in wartime. The second chapter focuses on the central role played by the British diplomatic and consular representatives in Denmark-Norway during this period. It sheds light on their efforts to navigate the complex negotiations and advocate for their respective countries' interests. The third chapter delves into the practical aspects of privateering, examining the activities and experiences of privateers in the Danish-Norwegian waters.

In the final two chapters, the book examines the impact of the Dutch change of sides in the war in 1795 and the subsequent development from the official closure of the Norwegian ports to privateers in 1799 until Denmark-Norway's entry into the war on the side of France in 1807. The author provides a comprehensive analysis of these events, highlighting their significance in shaping the course of the conflict.

Overall, this book offers a valuable insight into the complex diplomatic negotiations and the historical context surrounding privateering and neutral ports in the period 1793-1807. It sheds light on the strategies employed by different nations, the challenges faced by diplomats, and the broader implications of these events for the international system.

Weight: 351g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030451882
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020