British naval swords and swordsmanship / John McGrath and Mark Barton.

"This new publication is intended to bring together a mass of research dealing with all aspects of British naval swords. While the swords themselves are described the authors also tell the story of naval swordsmanship. For example, subjects such as how swords and cutlasses were used in action and how training was conducted are covered. The authors also address how the use of swords developed into a sport in the Navy, and how swords and swordsmaship entered naval symbology in such areas as ships' names. While the book concentrates on the Royal Navy, foreign weapons, including those of the Irish Naval Service, are mentioned where appropriate. Other British Maritime organisations such as the Merchant Navy, the Customs and Coastguard Services, and the Reserves are also addressed. The Appendices include the first list of Swords of Peace awarded to Naval units to be published. Recent research by the authors is also reflected in updated lists of Patriotic Fund Swords, City of London Swords, and Naval fencing champions contained in the Appendices."--Provided by the publisher.