John Knox Laughton created modern naval history to harmonise the adacemic standards of the new English historical profession with the strategic and doctrinal needs of the contemporary Royal Navy. His correspondents included major figures in both the historical and the naval professions: Alfred T. Mahan, Samuel Rawson Gardiner, Julian Corbett, Cyprian Bridge and many others. This volume will be of particular interest to those interested in the development of naval history and naval theory.

The flawed characters of 27 men who were awarded the world’s most prestigious bravery award, some of whom ended up in prison or were shunned by officialdom and a once adoring public.