History (457)

To Force The Enemy Off The Sea

ISBN: 9781804510858

Author: John Vimpany    Publisher: Helion & Company

This is the story of the RAF anti-shipping Strike Wing based at North Coates in Lincolnshire, whose Beaufighters from 1943 attacked heavily defended German conv...


This is the story of the RAF anti-shipping Strike Wing based at North Coates in Lincolnshire, whose Beaufighters from 1943 attacked heavily defended German convoys transporting raw materials to Rotterdam. During a little-known but hard-fought two-year campaign, the Wing succeeded in forcing the enemy's ships off the sea. From the outset of the Second World War, it was clear that the supply of raw materials, in particular high grade iron ore from Scandinavia, would form a crucial element in Germany's ability to maintain its armaments production. It was not until early 1943, however, after three years of heavy losses of aircraft and crews, that the RAF implemented an effective offensive capability against the heavily defended shipping convoys carrying iron ore and other raw materials into German-controlled ports. This volume sets out the strategic challenge the RAF faced in the North Sea and describes the piecemeal and costly response effected during the first three years of the conflict when other threats and theatres claimed a higher strategic priority. It also explains changes in strategy and tactics introduced through the course of 1942 and chronicles many of the big Strikes and other operations launched by North Coates from April 1943 onwards. Moreover, the 'balance sheet', examination of the anti-shipping campaign performance in general, and the North Coates Strike Wing in particular – vessels sunk, crews lost and the wider strategic impact are examined. Most controversially, the authors suggest that Britain missed an important strategic opportunity in 1942. A larger, earlier deployment of Strike Wings, diverting even a small proportion of the enormous resources allocated to Bomber Command's bombing of German cities, might have had a greater impact on the Third Reich's industrial production and with fewer aircrew losses and none of the moral ambiguity associated with that controversial campaign.


Bind: hardback


Pages: 142


Dimensions: 180 x 248 mm


Publication Date: 17-05-2022


$55.00
An Alternative History of Photography

ISBN: 9783791387826

Author: Phillip Prodger    Publisher: Prestel Publishing

The real history of photography is a vast collection of inter- connected stories stretching from East Asia to West Africa, from New Zealand to Uzbekistan. It p...


The real history of photography is a vast collection of inter- connected stories stretching from East Asia to West Africa, from New Zealand to Uzbekistan. It parallels acknowledged greats with forgotten masters, and lesser-known works with regional champions. It is a complex interplay of fine art, scientific, anthropological, documentary, and amateur traditions forged by women and men alike. Drawn from the extraordinary Solander Collection, this pioneering, alternative history of photography is based on principles of diversity and democracy, allowing famous works to be seen with fresh eyes, and giving more obscure works the platform they deserve. Images by Robert Frank, Diane Arbus, Man Ray, Ansel Adams, and Edward Weston are seen alongside those of Helen Stuart and John Lindt, early, self- trained practitioners Lady Augusta Mostyn and Major Francis Greeley, and African studio photographers Sanle Sory, Michel Kameni, and Malick Sidibe. It contains many rarities and "firsts" and spans photography's early decades with linchpin works by Sir John Herschel, William Henry Fox Talbot, Hippolyte Bayard, and Julia Margaret Cameron. Contemporary in outlook, visually captivating, and with contributions from leading curators and photo historians, this book will prove essential reading for those looking for an introduction to the field, as well as informed readers looking for more complete knowledge.


Bind: hardback


Pages: 256


Dimensions: 240 x 280 mm


Publication Date: 15-09-2022


$120.00
The Little Book of World Mythology

ISBN: 9781800071766

Author: Hannah Bowstead    Publisher: Summersdale Publishers

Step into a world of gods, heroes and monsters Throughout history, mythologies have been fundamental to societies and cultures across the world. They are the c...


Step into a world of gods, heroes and monsters Throughout history, mythologies have been fundamental to societies and cultures across the world. They are the collected stories of a people - the fascinating folk tales and the epic legends that shape the history and the beliefs of whole civilizations. This pocket guide offers readers an engaging and accessible introduction to the major world mythologies, exploring their origins, foundational stories and key mythological figures. Learn how the Greeks won the ten-year Trojan war, how the Norse god Thor got his mighty hammer, and why the Aztecs made a daily human sacrifice to the sun god, Huitzilopochtli. If you're looking to enrich and expand on your understanding of world history, religion and culture, then this book is an ideal starting point to fill your mind with stories of wisdom and wonder. Discover the captivating stories behind the following mythologies: Aboriginal, Aztec, Celtic, Chinese, Egyptian, Greek, Hindu, Incan, Japanese, Maori, Mayan, Mesopotamian, Norse, Roman.


Bind: paperback


Pages: 128


Dimensions: 105 x 148 mm


Publication Date: 14-08-2022


Tags: August 2022   History
$24.99
Game Shooting : An Illustrated History

ISBN: 9781846893605

Author: David S D Jones    Publisher: Quiller Publishing

Game Shooting for sporting purposes has taken place in England since the first half of the sixteenth century. David Jones has written a fascinating and comprehe...


Game Shooting for sporting purposes has taken place in England since the first half of the sixteenth century. David Jones has written a fascinating and comprehensive book covering the history of the sport from its inception to the present day. He examines changes in the typical shooting day, based on surviving diaries, newspaper articles and other historical documents. He charts the development of shooting in England, Wales and Scotland, across Europe and worldwide, including the planning and organisation required to support the growing popularity of the sport. Game Shooting contains a large selection of historic illustrations, photographs, articles and documents, providing an accurate record and unique insight into the lives of those involved. A fascinating book suitable for anyone with an interest in the sport.


Bind: paperback


Pages: 264


Dimensions: 189 x 246 mm


Publication Date: 14-06-2022


$75.00
A Guide to the Deer of the World

ISBN: 9781846893629

Author: Charles Smith-Jones    Publisher: Quiller Publishing

A Guide to the Deer of the World is a long-overdue review of deer as we understand them today and includes several species which have only recently become known...


A Guide to the Deer of the World is a long-overdue review of deer as we understand them today and includes several species which have only recently become known to science. Writing for a wide readership in a straightforward and easily accessible style, Charles Smith-Jones has produced an authoritative and attractive reference work with a strong conservation focus. Lavishly illustrated throughout in colour, the guide looks at deer evolution, biology and lifestyles in general before covering each of the fifty-five true deer, seven musk deer and ten chevrotain species as well as their subspecies in more detail with photographs, general information and distribution maps. In addition, there are fact boxes which include descriptions of individual recognition features, habitats, behaviour, breeding and conservation issues for each member of this widely diverse and fascinating group of animals. Forming an iconic and important part of almost all the world's ecosystems, many of the species featured are elusive and only very rarely photographed or observed. Any areas of taxonomical confusion and ongoing discussion are highlighted in readily understandable terms. This book will have a valued place in the library or on the coffee table of any nature lover or deer enthusiast.


Bind: hardback


Pages: 320


Dimensions: 210 x 270 mm


Publication Date: 14-07-2022


$160.00
Keep In A Cool Place : The first winter at Vanda Station, Antarctica

ISBN: 9781988503301

Authors: Allen J Riordan, Simon Cutfield    Publisher: Canterbury University Press

In 1969 Al Riordan, a US Exchange Scientist, joined Simon Cutfield and three other New Zealanders to spend a year at Vanda Station on the shores of Lake Vanda i...


In 1969 Al Riordan, a US Exchange Scientist, joined Simon Cutfield and three other New Zealanders to spend a year at Vanda Station on the shores of Lake Vanda in the Dry Valleys of Antarctica. The men lived in a strange world – a snowless place that had not seen a glacier for millions of years, yet lay within sight of the permanent East Antarctic Ice Sheet. The surface of the lake was covered in 3–4 metres of permanent ice, but the temperature of the water near the bottom was +25°C. No one knew for certain why the water was so warm, and Simon’s mission was to take measurements to help solve this mystery and carry out a range of other hydrologic and earth science projects. Al’s aim was to help build a comprehensive weather record, understand the valley wind systems, and to learn why the area was snow-free. Drawing on their diaries and letters, this is a unique first-person account of life at the station as the five men carry out their daily tasks in an environment that challenges and transforms them: temperatures as low as –57°C, eight months of total isolation, including four months of continual darkness, and daunting mechanical and logistical challenges, including a limited supply of power, fuel, heat and water. At least it’s no challenge to follow the instructions on their photographic chemicals – ‘Keep in a cool place’ – like much of their supplies, this equipment is encased in ice. Supplemented with scientific appendices, the book also gives the reader a window on how scientific knowledge is built one step at a time, from the initial planning, to data gathering, to building hypotheses, and to developing theory. As the only complete record of life at Vanda Station during the first year of its occupation, and complemented by a selection of maps and colour photos, this engaging account is an important missing chapter in the history of New Zealand’s Antarctic achievements.


Bind: paperback


Pages: 296


Dimensions: 152 x 229 mm


Publication Date: 01-09-2022


Tags: August 2022   History   Biography
$49.99
From Ushant to Gibraltar : The Channel Fleet 1778-1783

ISBN: 9781915070395

Author: Quintin Barry    Publisher: Helion & Company

In 1778, when the expected war finally broke with France, Lord Sandwich, the long serving First Lord of the Admiralty, had to find the resources to match the Fr...


In 1778, when the expected war finally broke with France, Lord Sandwich, the long serving First Lord of the Admiralty, had to find the resources to match the French fleet not only in the Channel but in other theatres of war such as the West Indies, the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean. In addition, the Royal Navy had to protect Britain’s extensive maritime commerce, covering the large inbound and outbound convoys on which the country’s economy depended. This book is a study of the men who led and the men who managed, both afloat and ashore, the Channel Fleet. In 1778 it was commanded by Admiral Augustus Keppel; third in command was a member of the Board of Admiralty, Vice Admiral Hugh Palliser. On 27 July it engaged the French fleet commanded by d’Orvilliers. The battle was inconclusive, both sides claiming the victory. During the battle Palliser’s flagship suffered particularly. At the time, no issue arose between Keppel and Palliser as to the course of the battle, but when, in late October, the latter came ashore he was shown a newspaper that suggested that he was to blame for Keppel’s failure to continue the battle. He was furious, but Keppel refused to sign a statement clearing Palliser’s name. The dispute escalated; Palliser demanded Keppel’s court martial but he was acquitted, as was Palliser himself when he in his turn was court-martialled. The navy’s officer corps was profoundly divided, and it caused lasting damage. After Sandwich, the most important naval administrator was the outspoken Sir Charles Middleton, the Comptroller of the Navy. He was responsible for two key innovations – the coppering of ships hull’s which protected them against damaging marine growths and significantly increased their speed, and the introduction of the cannonade, a lighter cannon of shorter range but greater hitting power. Middleton enjoyed a close relationship with Richard Kempenfelt who was arguably the ablest sea officer on either side. With Lord Howe, Kempenfelt was responsible for the introduction of a new system of signalling. He won a striking victory when attacking a heavily defended French convoy in 1781 but tragically died in 1782 when his flagship the Royal George sank at her moorings at Spithead. Throughout the war the French and Spanish planned the invasion of southern England. The enormous Combined Fleet appeared first in the Channel in 1779, but although causing a panic when it arrived off Plymouth, it was suffering from an epidemic of smallpox and abandoned the attempt. In 1782, with the fall of Lord North’s ministry, Sandwich left the Admiralty. Vilified by nineteenth century writers, his reputation has been largely restored by more recent historians.


Bind: paperback


Pages: 364


Dimensions: 156 x 234 mm


Publication Date: 10-06-2022


Tags: August 2022   Military   History
$69.99
Histories of Hate: The Radical Right in Aotearoa New Zealand

ISBN: 9781990048401

Authors: Matthew Cunningham, Marinus La Rooij, Paul Spoonley    Publisher: Otago University Press

Histories of Hate: The Radical Right in Aotearoa New Zealand explores intolerance and extremism in Aotearoa New Zealand, from the emergence of the precursors to...


Histories of Hate: The Radical Right in Aotearoa New Zealand explores intolerance and extremism in Aotearoa New Zealand, from the emergence of the precursors to the radical right during British settlement in the late nineteenth century to today’s QAnon conspiracists and keyboard warriors. This volume reveals the complexities of Aotearoa’s radical right traditions and discusses how, through time, various groups have been animated by a diverse mix of ideas, idealogues, organisations, social clubs and political parties. The text puts a wide range of topics under a direct and critical lens. Colonisation, antisemitism, discrimination against Chinese immigrants, anti-communism, skinhead gangs, support for white minority governments in southern Africa, opposition to Māori Treaty rights, the religious right, and recent events such as the 15 March 2019 terrorist attacks in Christchurch and the rise of COVID-19 conspiracy theories are all covered. In Histories of Hate, editors Matthew Cunningham, Marinus La Rooij and Paul Spoonley have brought together experts from multiple disciplines, including historians, sociologists, political scientists, kaupapa Māori scholars, and experts in religious and media studies, to create a benchmark text that will be the definitive reference for years to come. A compelling read and an important, timely book, Histories of Hate traverses Aotearoa’s socio-political and extreminist landscape in both historical and contemporary contexts, shedding light on the social and cultural intolerances that continue to shape New Zealand society to this day.


Bind: paperback


Pages: 444


Dimensions: 170 x 240 mm


Publication Date: 30-11-2022


Tags: History   New Zealand
$50.00
Travelling Light : Stories from the world we explored in the 70s

ISBN: 9781991103024

Author: Steve Lowndes    Publisher: Quentin Wilson Publishing

This is the true story of life on the road for two young people back in the day when travel was one big adventure. In 1969 Steve Lowndes and Lisa Potts met by c...


This is the true story of life on the road for two young people back in the day when travel was one big adventure. In 1969 Steve Lowndes and Lisa Potts met by chance at a dusty bus stop in Bolivia and spent the next ten years travelling around the world together. Pakistan, Russia, Greece, Turkey, Iran, America, Canada, Indonesia, Australia… all these countries and more attracted our intrepid travellers in their quest to explore, to experience the unfamiliar, in the new decade of the 1970s. These are the days before credit cards, mobile phones or internet cafés, when the journey itself is the point of the experience, destinations are vaguely on the other side of the planet and getting there simply takes as long as it takes. Full of colour, beauty, romance and the pleasures of the open road, these tales of two travellers in the days before mass tourism, full airliners and clogged cities lovingly recalled here by Steve and Lisa really are journeys to write home about. No plans, just you, your passport, a change of clothes and the appeal of the unknown, the thrill of taking on whatever tomorrow brings. Whether you made a similar journey, or wanted to, or would like to, or are yet to be seduced by the lure of the road less travelled, Travelling Light is the book for you.


Bind: paperback


Pages: 320


Dimensions: 170 x 240 mm


Publication Date: 28-10-2022


Tags: September 2022   History   Travel
$49.99
Wales and the All Blacks : An Off-Field History

ISBN: 9781800992580

Author: Roger Penn    Publisher: Y Lolfa

From the first match between Wales and New Zealand in 1905, a mutual bond of rivalry and respect has developed between these two rugby-loving countries. This bo...


From the first match between Wales and New Zealand in 1905, a mutual bond of rivalry and respect has developed between these two rugby-loving countries. This book documents all the matches played, but unlike other histories it shifts the focus to the delights and curiosities of off-field actions, obligations and functions, drawing our attention to this often-overlooked aspect of a tour. From forgotten facts unearthed in dusty old newspapers to the fresh anecdotes and recollections of modern-day greats - both All Black and Welsh - Roger Penn provides us with an unorthodox and stimulating look at these great rugby encounters. With foreword by Welsh rugby legend J P R Williams.


Bind: paperback


Pages: 352


Dimensions: 140 x 215 mm


Publication Date: 19-09-2022


$39.99
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