The Great Anglo-Russian Naval Alliance of the Eighteenth Century and Beyond

Examines Naval co-operation between Britain and Russia and the often underappreciated prowess of the Russian navy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 11 March 2022
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

Naval co-operation between Britain and Russia was a significant aspect of their relationship throughout the eighteenth century. Britain provided substantial assistance to Russia's navy, contributing to its growth and development. In return, Russia made an essential but often overlooked contribution to Britain's maritime power.

The collaboration began in 1698 when Tsar Peter the Great served briefly as a trainee shipwright at Deptford dockyard in England. During this time, Russia recruited British, often Scottish, shipwrights, engineers, naval officers, and naval surgeons. These individuals not only helped build up the Russian navy but also played a crucial role in advising the Russian navy at sea.

In addition to the recruitment of skilled personnel, Russia also provided naval stores from time to time. These stores were particularly important after Britain lost the American colonies, as they ensured the maintenance of Britain's fleet. Moreover, as this book argues, Russian naval power was much more formidable than is often realised. The Russian navy was active alongside the British fleet in the North Sea and achieved decisive victories against the Ottoman navy in the Mediterranean, including the battles of Çeşme in 1770 and Navarino in 1827.

Britain's alliance with Russia was advantageous rather than hostile. The Russian navy's presence alongside the British fleet in the North Sea provided a strong deterrent against potential maritime threats. Additionally, the Russian navy's expertise and experience were valuable in assisting the British in various naval operations.

This book aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the naval co-operation between Britain and Russia during the eighteenth century. It explores the various aspects of the collaboration, including the recruitment of skilled personnel, the provision of naval stores, and the Russian navy's contributions to Britain's maritime power. By examining this subject, the book sheds light on the complex and multifaceted relationship between these two nations and their shared naval history.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783276684