Title
Sailing The Graveyard Sea: The Deathly Voyage Of The Somers, The U.S. Navy'S Only Mutiny, And The Trial That Gripped The Nation,Used
Processing time: 1-3 days
US Orders Ships in: 3-5 days
International Orders Ships in: 8-12 days
Return Policy: 15-days return on defective items
Payment Option
A compelling (The Wall Street Journal) account of the only mutiny in the history of the United States Navya littleknown but once notorious event that cost three young men their livespart murder mystery, part courtroom drama, and as propulsive and dramatic as the bestselling novels of Patrick OBrian.On December 16, 1842, the US brigofwar Somers dropped anchor in the New York Harbor at the end of a voyage intended to teach a group of adolescents the rudiments of naval life. But this routine exercise ended in catastrophe. Commander Alexander Slidell Mackenzie came ashore claiming he had prevented a mutiny that would have left him and his officers dead. Some of the thwarted mutineers were being held under guard, but three had already been hanged at sea: Boatswains Mate Samuel Cromwell, Seaman Elisha Small, and Acting Midshipman Philip Spencer, whose father was the secretary of war, John Spencer.Eighteenyearold Philip Spencer, according to his commander, had been the ringleader who encouraged the crew to seize the ship and become pirates so that they might rape and pillage their way through the northern coast of South America and the Caribbean. While the young man might have been fascinated by stories of pirates, it soon became clear the order that condemned the three men had no legal basis. And, worse, it appeared possible that no mutiny had actually occurred, and that the ship might instead have been seized by a creeping hysteria that ended in the sacrifice of three innocents.Months of accusations and counteraccusations were followed by a highly public courtmartial that put Mackenzie on trial for his life, and a storm of antiNavy sentiment drew the attention of such leading writers of the day as Herman Melville and James Fenimore Cooper. But some good did come out of it: public disgust with Mackenzies hapless training gave birth to Annapolis, the distinguished naval academ that within a century would produce the mightiest navy the world had ever known.Vividly told and filled with tense shown directly in courtmartial transcripts, Richard Snows masterly account of this allbutforgotten episode is a hell of a yarn (Kirkus Reviews) and naval history at its finest.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does this book have? A: This book has three hundred four pages. It's a substantial read that offers an in-depth look into a little-known naval event.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: This book is bound in hardcover. The hardcover binding provides durability and a premium feel, making it ideal for collectors.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: The book measures six inches in length, one point two inches in width, and nine point zero two inches in height. These dimensions make it a manageable size for reading.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Richard Snow. He is known for his engaging writing style and meticulous research in historical narratives.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: This book is classified as historical non-fiction. It combines elements of naval history, courtroom drama, and true crime.
- Q: What age group is this book suitable for? A: This book is suitable for adults and older teens. Its themes and historical context are more appropriate for mature readers.
- Q: How can I read this book? A: You can read this book by purchasing it through various retailers or borrowing it from a library. It's designed for those interested in naval history and courtroom intrigue.
- Q: Is this book easy to understand? A: Yes, the book is written in a compelling and accessible style. Readers will find the narrative engaging, even if they are not familiar with naval terminology.
- Q: Is this book suitable for academic study? A: Yes, this book can be used for academic study. It provides detailed accounts and analysis that can support research in naval history.
- Q: How should I store this book? A: Store this book in a cool, dry place, upright on a shelf. This will help maintain its condition and prevent damage.
- Q: Can this book be cleaned? A: Yes, you can clean this book by dusting it gently with a soft cloth. Avoid using liquids as they can damage the pages.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the retailer for a return or exchange. Most retailers have customer service to address such issues.
- Q: Are there any safety concerns with this book? A: No, there are no safety concerns with this book. It is a printed book with no hazardous materials.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: Typically, there is no warranty for books. However, check with the retailer for their return policy.
- Q: What makes this book unique? A: This book is unique due to its focus on the only mutiny in U.S. Navy history, combining gripping storytelling with historical facts.