The Naval Government of Newfoundland in the French Wars: 1793-1815

This book explores the Naval Governorship and administration of Newfoundland during the French Wars, focusing on the years 1793-1815 as it transitioned from a migratory fishery to a colonial settlement. It sheds light on the challenges faced by the governors and their responses to the needs of the settlers and indigenous populations, revealing their professional attitudes and attributes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This captivating book delves into the rich tapestry of professional and political ideas that shaped the Naval Governors of Newfoundland during the French Wars. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of the Naval Governorship and administration in the region, shedding light on a crucial period in its early modern history. By contextualizing Newfoundland within the broader framework of Britain's Atlantic Empire, the author, Dr. Brendan Morrow, focuses on the years 1793 to 1815, a transformative era marked by the transition from a predominantly migratory fishery and 'nursery of seamen' to a colonial settlement with a vibrant British and Irish population.

Amidst the backdrop of the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, the Naval Governors of Newfoundland encountered a unique set of challenges. With a diversifying economy and a burgeoning demography, they navigated a complex web of social, economic, and political dynamics. Drawing upon a wealth of primary and secondary sources, Dr. Morrow presents a comprehensive account of their responses to the perceived needs of the diverse populations they governed—both the settled settlers and the indigenous communities. Through meticulous research and analysis, he unveils the professional attitudes and attributes that these governors brought to bear on their civil and military responsibilities.

The book explores the interplay between the Naval Governors and the British government, highlighting the complex dynamics of power and authority in a colonial context. It sheds light on the strategies employed by the governors to maintain stability and order amidst the turmoil of war, as well as their efforts to promote economic development and cultural exchange. The governors played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Newfoundland, advocating for its interests within the broader imperial framework.

Furthermore, the book delves into the personal lives and backgrounds of the Naval Governors, exploring their experiences, motivations, and challenges. It sheds light on the social and cultural dynamics of the time, including the impact of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars on the region. The governors' interactions with the local communities, both indigenous and settler, provide a rich tapestry of insights into the complex web of relationships that shaped Newfoundland's history during this pivotal period.

In conclusion, Exploring the Professional and Political Ideas of Newfoundland Naval Governors during the French Wars is a seminal work that offers a profound understanding of the region's early modern history. Through meticulous research and analysis, Dr. Morrow provides a comprehensive account of the Naval Governors' professional attitudes and attributes, their responses to the challenges of their time, and their contributions to the development of Newfoundland as a colonial settlement. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, historians, and anyone interested in the broader context of Britain's Atlantic Empire and the complexities of colonial governance.

Weight: 374g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350383173