Sailing on Friday: The Perilous Voyage of America's Merchant Marine (History of the U.S. Merchant Marine)

Sailing on Friday recounts the growth and decline of what twice became the world's most powerful maritime flect. This is a tale of operatic dimension, peopled with patriots, politicians, industrial geniuses, fearless seamen, and gallant swashbucklers. It includes accounts of little-noted innovations that had long-lasting effects, daring ocean rescues, sea battles, and financial gambles that won or lost millions. Growing stress among diverse forces of mer-chants, shipowners, seafarers, and federal agencies brings this exciting story to an appalling climax.