The Naval Government of Newfoundland in the French Wars - by John Morrow (Paperback)

About the Book

This book explores the professional and political attitudes and ideas of Newfoundland naval governors during the French Wars of 1791-1815.

Book Synopsis

Exploring the professional and political ideas of Newfoundland naval governors during the French Wars, this book traces the evolution of the Naval Governorship and administration of the region, shedding a light on a critical period of its early modern history.

Contextualising Newfoundland as part of Britain's broader Atlantic Empire, Morrow focuses on the years 1793-1815 as it transitioned from a largely migratory fishery and 'nursery of seaman' to a colonial settlement with a resident British and Irish population. With a diversifying economy and growing demography amidst the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, the governors of Newfoundland faced a unique set of challenges. Drawing upon various primary and secondary sources, Morrow provides a comprehensive account of their responses to the perceived needs of those they governed - both settler and indigenous - and reveals the professional attitudes and attributes they brought to bear on both their civil and military responsibilities.

Review Quotes

"An excellent study that places Newfoundland into context with the 18th century British Atlantic Empire and demonstrates the great difficulty Naval Governors faced in balancing the needs and comfort of the residents with the requirements of a nation at prolonged war."
J. Ross Dancy, Associate Professor, U.S. Naval War College, USA

"This is a well-researched, detailed and original study, and a major contribution to its field. In this groundbreaking and well researched study, Professor Morrow does an excellent job of outlining the role of naval officers in governing Newfoundland, shedding light not just on the history of the province but on its place in the wider world during a turbulent and crucially important period."
Martin Wilcox, University of Hull, UK

About the Author

John Morrow is Emeritus Professor of Politics and International Relations at the University of Auckland, New Zealand.