The Influence of Seapower Upon History

By: Alfred T. Mahan

Narrated by: Jonathan Reese

First published almost a century ago, this classic text on the history and tactics of naval warfare had a profound effect on the imperial policies of all the major powers. Kaiser Wilhelm is said to have "devoured" this book, and it was avidly read by presidents (including both Roosevelts), kings, prime ministers, admirals, and chancellors.

Demonstrating through historical examples that the rise and fall of seapower (and of nations) has always been linked with commercial and military command of the seas, Mahan describes successful naval strategies employed in the past—from Greek and Roman times through the Napoleonic wars. Focusing primarily on England's rise as a sea power in the eighteenth century, the book provides not only an overview of naval tactics, but a lucid exposition of geographical, economic, and social factors governing the maintenance of sea power.

Although ships, weapons, and the global balance of power have altered greatly since 1890, the lessons taught here so vividly and compellingly are still applicable today.

How Navies define Nations

It was a book needed by not only Americans also the world to examine and peel back naval doctrine Mahan was brilliant and his understanding of Naval power will dominate geopolitics for another one hundred years. A must read for anyone interested in naval history.

Poor recording

Narrator did fine. The recording was very hard to listen to. A lot of old recording scratching in the background

Great book

Would you consider the audio edition of The Influence of Seapower Upon History to be better than the print version?

The audio edition is easier to start with. The original book is good if you like to study the details on seabattles in the 1700's.

Any additional comments?

This book covers most of the reasons why the worldmap looks like it does today. This book is essential reading for presidents and prime ministers.

Quaint historical interest

This book is good. The narration is quality, though there is some background noise throughout the recording. The general text of the book is mostly of quaint historical interest; at the time of writing, the major policy debate was how primarily coal-driven ironclads will influence naval combat in the future. It is kind of disconcerting that this is marketed under "Audible Kids" - to find a child's voice introducing one to a long, professional exposition of the war of Spanish succession is odd.

Audio quality is fine.

Previous reviews noted poor audio quality. I found no issues. The narrator was good too.