In a brilliantly imaginative blend of military, social and diplomatic history, Norman Longmate retells our island story from the perspective of its defenders, in a narrative which stretches from the Celtic tribes who unsuccessfully fought against Ceasar to the great seabourne defence against the Armada of Philip of Spain.
He has gone back to the original sources and investigated the original battlegrounds and weak spots in Britain's defences. But the real strength of his book is its seamless narrative of history, which uncovers the truth behind the legends. A mass of solidly researched fact, not readily found elsewhere, is seasoned with lively, humorous and occassionally gruesome anecdote.
The result, providing at once an invaluable sourcebook for the specialist and an enthralling narrative for the general reader, is by far the most comprehensive and accessible history of England versus invasion ever published.
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Norman Longmate was born in Newbury, Berkshire, and educated by scholarship at Christ's Hospital, where he was deeply influenced by an inspiring history teacher. After the war service in the army he read modern history at Worcester College, Oxford. He subsequently worked as a journalist in Fleet Street, as a producer of history programmes for the BBC, and for the BBC Secretariat. In 1981 he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and in 1983 he left the BBC to become a full-time writer.
Norman Longmate is the author of more than twenty books, mainly on the Second World War and on Victorian social history, and of many radio and television scripts on historical subjects. He has frequently been employed as an historical adviser by film and television companies.
Les informations fournies dans la section « A propos du livre » peuvent faire référence à une autre édition de ce titre.
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Vendeur : Artifacts eBookstore, Gosport, Royaume-Uni
THIS BOOK: Classified as NEAR FINE. This is the 2001 edition. First published in Great Britain in 1989 by Hutchinson, and this edition in 2001 by Pimlico. The cover is full glossy colour and laminated. Blue background with white text, and in an inset panel with an old-world map of Great Britain and Scotland in a golden colour. IMAGES: We provide at least two images for each book, and with a map, to give you a clear idea of what you are purchasing. ## Read on for interesting information. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Defending the Island: From Caesar to the Armada by Norman Longmate (2001) offers a sweeping account of Britain's efforts to resist foreign invasion over sixteen centuries. Beginning with Julius Caesar's failed attempts to conquer the island, the book traces the evolving strategies, technologies, and political decisions that shaped England's defensive posture through to the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588. Longmate draws on a wide range of historical sources to present a vivid and accessible narrative. He explores the shifting threats posed by Romans, Saxons, Vikings, Normans, and continental powers, detailing how each era responded with its own blend of fortifications, diplomacy, and military innovation. From the construction of coastal beacons and castles to the rise of naval power, the book highlights the ingenuity and resilience of England's defenders. The author pays close attention to the social and logistical aspects of defence, including the role of local militias, the use of warning systems, and the impact of warfare on civilian life. Anecdotes and eyewitness accounts add colour and immediacy, while maps and illustrations (where included) help readers visualise the terrain and tactics involved. The final chapters focus on the Tudor period, culminating in the dramatic events of 1588 when England faced its greatest threat from the Spanish Armada. Longmate examines the political tensions, strategic decisions, and maritime confrontations that defined this moment, offering a balanced view of both English and Spanish perspectives. This book is ideal for readers interested in military history, British heritage, and the long arc of national defence. It combines scholarly depth with engaging storytelling, making it suitable for collectors, educators, and general readers alike. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ INTERNATIONAL BUYERS: Please Note. FREE SHIPPING IS ONLY FOR THE UK. Please contact me for a shipping quote. N° de réf. du vendeur MMXL-382-enghist
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