The biggest battleship of her era was originally to be called the Rio de Janeiro but due to a change of ownership became Sultan Osman I and finally HMS Agincourt. This is a look at her chequered history which started with British and German shipyards vying to build her.

In 'Famous Sea Fights, from Salamis to Tsu-Shima' by A. Hilliard Atteridge, readers are taken on a thrilling journey through some of the most significant naval battles in history. Atteridge's detailed accounts of battles such as the Battle of Trafalgar and the Battle of Lepanto are not only informative but also engaging, making this book a valuable resource for those interested in naval history. The author's descriptive narrative style brings the chaos and intensity of these battles to life, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the action and strategic maneuvers of naval warfare. Written in the early 20th century, this book provides a historical perspective on naval warfare that is both educational and entertaining. A. Hilliard Atteridge's expertise in military history is evident in his thorough research and analysis of each sea battle featured in the book, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts and students of naval tactics. 'Famous Sea Fights, from Salamis to Tsu-Shima' is highly recommended for anyone seeking a comprehensive and compelling account of the most famous naval battles throughout history.

A true story of royal intrigue—with famed diarist Samuel Pepys as the main protagonist—as a fatal shipwreck on the shores of Restoration Britain sparks a mystery that now may finally be solved. In 1682, Charles II invited his scandalous younger brother, James, Duke of York, to return from exile and take his rightful place as heir to the throne. To celebrate, the future king set sail in a fleet of eight ships destined for Edinburgh, where he would reunite with his young pregnant wife. Yet disaster struck en route, somewhere off the Norfolk coast. The royal frigate carrying James and his entourage sank, causing some two hundred sailors and courtiers to perish. The diarist Samuel Pepys had been asked to sail with James but refused the invitation, preferring to travel in one of the other ships. Why? What did he know that others did not? Religious and political tensions were rife in the years leading up to the wreck of the Gloucester. James was a Catholic, as was his wife, and there was a large constituency who wished them dead. Plots and conspiracies abounded. The Royal Navy was itself in disarray, badly equipped and poorly organised. Could someone on board be to blame for the sinking, either from malice or incompetence? Nigel Pickford’s compelling account of the catastrophe draws on a richness of historical material including letters, diaries and ships’ logs, revealing for the first time the full drama and tragic consequences of a shipwreck that shook Restoration Britain.