Description

Title: The Voyage of the Catalpa: A Perilous Journey and Six Irish Rebels' Escape to Freedom
Author/Publisher: Peter F. Stevens, Weidenfeld & Nicolson
Publication Year: 2003
Format: Illustrated Hardcover with Dust Jacket

Synopsys: In 'The Voyage of the Catalpa: A Perilous Journey and Six Irish Rebels' Escape to Freedom', author Peter F. Stevens tells the true and riveting story of the most successful high-seas prison breakout in history. Set in 1875, the narrative follows six Irish political prisoners who made a daring escape from the most notorious British prison in Fremantle, Western Australia onto an American whaling ship, the Catalpa. The book portrays the detailed planning, human solidarity, and the struggle for freedom intertwined with international diplomatic tensions. Stevens uses characters' diaries and memoirs to provide a vivid first-hand account of the prisoners’ incredible journey to political freedom.

Synopsis

This compelling First UK edition by Peter F. Stevens recounts one of the most astonishing true stories of escape and defiance in maritime history. Published in 2003, it details the incredible 1875 high-seas rescue of six Irish political prisoners from the formidable British penal colony in Fremantle, Western Australia.

Categorised under Biographies & True Stories, specifically Irish History, the narrative is a gripping non-fiction account. It explores the meticulous planning and perilous execution of a daring breakout that captured global attention, orchestrated by supporters of the Irish Fenian Brotherhood.

• The Fenian Prisoners: Delves into the lives and political convictions of the six Irish Fenian rebels, providing crucial context to their incarceration in Australia and their unwavering resolve for freedom.
• The Audacious Escape: Chronicles the intricate and clandestine plot to free the prisoners from one of the most remote and secure British prisons, highlighting the ingenuity and bravery of all involved.
• The Catalpa's Voyage: Follows the extraordinary journey of the American whaling ship, the *Catalpa*, as it sailed halfway across the world to carry out the rescue, navigating both the literal dangers of the ocean and the watchful eyes of the British authorities.

This First UK edition, presented as an illustrated hardcover complete with its dust jacket, offers a meticulously researched and thrilling account of human courage against insurmountable odds. It is an essential acquisition for enthusiasts of Irish history, true-life adventures, and tales of liberation.

Condition

This item has been professionally inspected and is in Acceptable condition. Please refer to the photographs for detailed visual assessment.

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