Out of the Depths

“An accessible book that offers an intriguing overview of shipwrecks in world history, their discovery by archaeologists and treasure hunters, and the concerns shipwrecks raise in the modern day. Jamieson raises his most salient arguments in part 2 by discussing the impacts of the UNESCO Convention on the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage and the environmental threats posed by shipwrecks as ships have begun relying on oil as cargo and fuel. With its easily digestible chapters and accessible price, Out of the Depths would be an excellent book to combine with specialist literature in undergraduate courses that cover topics related to ocean environments in global contexts.”– “H-Environment”“Out of the Depths is not a simple chronology of shipwrecks. Jamieson writes about the circumstances and context of each loss. One important thread of his historical narrative is how shipwrecks over time have been used by mankind. Since the beginning, salvage has been the most important activity as sovereigns and ship owners tried to recover cargos such as precious metals, jewels, ordinary trade goods, and even cannons. The need to access wrecks in increasing depths also helped force development of diving operations and equipment, which remains true even today… . I have been involved in a wide variety of ocean-related activities for more than half a century, yet I found Out of the Depths both educational and a good read. It is in my library and should be in yours if you are interested in maritime history.”– “Proceedings of the US Naval Institute”“In Out of the Depths: A History of Shipwrecks, Jamieson provides more than a comprehensive guided tour of shipwrecks across time to the present. His history is not simply a compendium of shipwrecks; Jamieson points to those shipwrecks which had an impact upon society and affect our study of the past. He starts by showing how shipwrecks influence our literature and arts and ends with their influence on our laws and values… . If you are interested in the study of shipwrecks, this book serves as an excellent starting point and comprehensive overview.” –Vic Mastone, former Director and Chief Archaeologist for the Massachusetts Board of Underwater Archaeological Resources

Alan G. Jamieson is a researcher and writer based in Alberta, Canada. His books include the novel Crossroads of the Years.