The Trafalgar Companion, detailing the battle fought between the British Navy and the French and Spanish combined fleet in October 1805, has been universally acclaimed as the definitive work on the subject, distinguished by its superb illustrations, articulacy and attention to detail. The book surpasses everything previously published on the battle in both scale and authority. Former army officer Mark Adkin not only describes the Trafalgar campaign and the battle itself in unprecedented detail, he also covers Nelson's career and earlier actions. Also included is the wealth of background information on contemporary naval life, seamanship, gunnery, signalling and tactics that one has come to expect from this distinguished author. Divided into twenty chapters across nine sections, The Trafalgar Companion can be dipped into as a reference guide or read cover to cover. Detailing everything from the sailors, officers and tactics to the ships themselves, each section is placed in the context of the battle and enhanced by maps, plans, drawings and diagrams. The book also covers Nelson's boyhood and early years in the Navy, his affair with Emma Hamilton, and the six other main actions in which he took part, from the siege of Calvi in 1794 to the Battles of the Nile and Copenhagen, as well as his funeral, memorials and enduring fame. The Trafalgar Companion is an absolute must-have for anyone hoping to further their understanding of both Admiral Nelson and this iconic moment in British Naval history.
