The Command of the Ocean A Naval History of Britain 16491815 by Nicholas Henderson is a comprehensive history of the British Navy from 1649 to 1815, covering its development and growth during this period. The book explores how the navy evolved over time, adapting to new technologies and strategies, and how it played a crucial role in shaping Britain's destiny. It also examines the impact of naval power on British society and culture, including the lives of sailors and their families. The book begins with the English Civil War (1642-1651), when the navy was first formed, and ends with the Battle of Waterloo (1815), which marked the end of the Napoleonic Wars. During this period, the navy underwent significant changes, such as the introduction of new ship designs, weapons, and tactics, as well as the rise of professionalism among officers and seamen.

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