From Baird Maritime
The Spithead and other naval mutinies that hit the British Navy in 1797 were enormously and unexpectedly influential in improving conditions on the lower decks.
As the various authors of the papers contained in this excellent book clearly show, the naval ratings involved were very well organised and exhibited brilliant timing. Britain was in the midst of a long and serious war with France within which the Navy was the most important participant.
Spreading like a plague, the mutinies eventually infected more than 100 ships. Inspired by poor pay and conditions as well as hopeless communications between senior officers and ratings, they were disputes that, in hindsight, could well have been avoided.
Of course, the political background was one of fast developing democracy mixed with revolution in America, France and elsewhere. This probably inspired the reasoned approach that eventually prevailed on both sides. In the end, reason and decency largely prevailed to the general benefit.
An important and fascinating series of incidents brilliantly described.
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