SWAMP SAILORS: RIVERINE WARFARE IN THE EVERGLADES 1835-1842. by Buker, George E - 1975

Gainsville: University of Florida, 1975. 152 pp, large 8vo (9 1/4" H). Map endpapers, b&w illustrations. "Until the Second Seminole War the United States Navy had generally employed the Federalist doctrine (cruiser-commerce-raiding), but the uniqueness of this Indian conflict caused the navy to adopt a new offensive strategy. For the first time in history the American Navy was pitted against a nonmaritime foe. There were no single merchantmen to attack; there were no cruisers to engage in single-ship combat; there were no enemy fleets to be repelled from the nation's harbors. Instead, there were Indians practicing guerilla tactics in a watery environment - the Everglades of Florida. Athough it was not apparent at the beginning of the war, the navy's only hope for victory lay in the development of a strategy for riverine warfare. It was a kind of warfare that demanded specially trained combat groups, organized for sustained land/sea operations. It required joint action with the army. It called for a naval command familiar with setting up and directing complex operations and diverse forces to achieve an overall objective. In developing a strategy of riverine warfare, United States Navy policy evolved from a defensive to an offensive position, from a society of highly individualistic and inflexible sea captains into a well-meshed cooperative unit capable of working not only alone but also with the army. Between 1835 and 1842, the navy came of age. Here is a dramatic account of that vital time, enhanced by an awesome setting, which will engage and enlighten both the scholar of naval history and the armchair sailor." Previous owner's small stamp on front pastedown. Dust jacket has very light edgewear/wrinkling, two very small closed tears with crease, light browning, very light soiling on rear panel and spine, tiny light stain on front panel.. Hard Cover. Near Fine/Very Good.