Admiral Edward Russell and the rise of British naval supremacy / by David West.

"For many people the name of Edward Russell (1653-1727) strikes few chords of recognition, even though his influence on naval history can scarcely be overestimated. In this first book devoted to Admiral Russell, David West brings us the background and achievements of a man without whom the course of British history would have been very different. At the age of 38, Edward Russell raised his flag as Commander-in-Chief of the English Fleet and set in motion a chain of events that saw the rise of British Naval Supremacy around 100 years ahead of Nelson's famous victory."--Provided by the publisher.