The Role of the Royal Navy in South America, 1920-1970

Description

This book demonstrates the importance of the presence of the Royal Navy in South America. Historically there have been no treaty obligations and few strategic considerations in the region, yet it is frequently referred to as forming part of Britain's 'unofficial empire'. The role of the Navy in supporting foreign relations and promoting commerce is examined during a period of the twentieth century which is often associated with the decline of the British Empire. The Role of the Royal Navy in South America, 1920-1970 shows how the Royal Navy reacted to changing circumstances during the post-war decades by adopting a more pro-active attitude towards the imperative of supporting naval exports. It provides a scholarly investigation of this important peacetime role for the service and offers the first book-length study of the Navy's involvement in the region during this period.

Jon Wise is a freelance researcher, based in the UK.

With very broad appeal and many pertinent lessons, I would recommend this book to anyone with an interest in naval diplomacy, South America or British shipbuilding. I would actually go so far as to say that it should be recommended reading for every APT(S) CO, all Defence Attaches serving in South America and all naval officers appointed to UKTI. I would similarly hope that the libraries at both Dartmouth and Shrivenham will be stocked with ample copies. -- Jonathan Lett, Cdr RN * The Naval Review *