A Piratical Myth

By Cdr Ian Whitehouse RN

Message from the Editor

Channeling Jon Sumida and Nicholas Lambert, the author reproduces National Archives documents to demonstrate the reality of the RN’s approach to submarine development at the turn of the 20th century. A 10 minute read.

Many a submariner, showing friends, family or visitors around a submarine will refer to a quotation, ascribed to Admiral of the Fleet, Sir Arthur Knyvet Wilson, 3rd Baronet, VC, GCB, OM, GCVO, who, as 3rd Sea Lord (Controller of the Navy) is understood to have said, “Submarines are unfair, underhand and damned un-English.” Perhaps adding that Sir Arthur went on to say that, “All submariners should be hung as pirates in the time of war.” Reference may then be made variously to skull and crossbones flags, unwashed bodies, water rationing, lengthy patrols, pirate rig, hot bunking, ‘The Trade’ and…

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