Richard Sanders is an author whose work delves into the captivating world of historical exploration and adventure. His writing is marked by a deep engagement with the past, particularly focusing on maritime history and the allure of pirates. Through his narratives, Sanders seeks to uncover the untold stories and enduring legends that surround these figures, offering readers a vivid and immersive journey into bygone eras.
Russia's First Standing Forces, 1550 - 1705: Russia's First
66 pages
3 hours of reading
Focusing on the unique history of the Russian streltsy, this book explores their role as the first permanent standing infantry in Russia, formed by Ivan the Terrible. Known for their resistance to western influences, they served as a formidable military force in the 16th and 17th centuries, often positioned close to the tsar. However, their rejection of modernization and violent opposition to Peter the Great culminated in a failed rebellion, resulting in their dissolution from the army by 1720, marking a significant shift in Russian military history.
He drank tea rather than rum. He never killed a single prisoner. And he was probably gay. Meet the real pirate of the Caribbean. Bartholomew Roberts was the greatest of Caribbean pirates, seizing 400 ships in a career that lasted little more than 2 ½ years. Yet today he is virtually forgotten. Originally a tea-sipping, disciplined third mate, when captured by pirates for recruitment, he begged to be released. But, he was fearless, and a born leader and he became the most successful, most exciting and dynamic pirate there ever was. Through the telling of this remarkable story, Richard Sanders explores the myth of pirates and provides a pirates’ tour of the strange and cruel world of the early 18th century Atlantic. With searing research and swashbuckling anecdotes, Sanders has written a biography of one of the most intriguing men in history. Here is the reality of the myths which spawned a million childhood fantasies.‘A fascinating book, full of incident and fresh insight…' Daily Telegraph‘A swashbuckling tale from the golden age of piracy, spilling over with pieces of eight and whiffing of gunpowder ... ’ Mail on SundayRichard Sanders is an award-winning documentary producer, director and presenter. He lives in London.
