Mad for Glory

More about the book

In October 1812, Captain David Porter embarks on an audacious journey with the U.S. frigate Essex, transforming from naval commander to rogue leader. His mission spirals into a chaotic privateering adventure across the Pacific, marked by pillaging and hedonism. Drawing from Porter's writings and eyewitness accounts, the narrative details his descent into obsession, rivalry with British buccaneers, and the eventual tragic consequences of his quest for glory. Ultimately, his pursuit of redemption results in catastrophic losses for his crew.