Book Review: Six Frigates, The Epic history of the founding of the US Navy

I finished a book I had been reading tonight: Six Frigates: The Epic History of the Founding of the U.S. Navy, Ian W. Toll.  I have had a fascination with naval history as of late and learning more about the early US navy seemed a natural choice. Going into this book I will admit a dearth of knowledge on the early naval history of America, I knew there was a Tripolitan War, a Quasi War, and a War of 1812, but I had no idea how interwoven the early American politics and economics would interesect in the story of the original six frigates.

The book tells the story in an enthralling and engaging manner, often the talesof naval combat sound more like Patrick O'Brien than dry military history.  Six Frigates also ahs the enormous plus of being unapologetically enthusiastic about America and its early history.  It rarely if ever lapses into post modern recrimination towards America, for a modern work this is rare.  Six Frigates weaves politics, drama, action, history, economics, and Americanism into an enthralling tale of how, why, and who was responsible for starting, fostering, and building America's navy.  I would give this book 4 out of 5 broadsides

Pros: Action very well written, almost dramatized.  Facts are essentialized, does not get bogged down in unnecessary detail.  Engaging at all levels.

Con:  Have a reference book of sail terminology handy while reading; I thought I knew a bit about naval speak....I was wrong.  Could have used a codex in the back with a list of all the principle people involved, was hard to keep track of all the names.

Freedom is not Free, Americanism and Memorial day

In America, the last Monday of every May is a day of thanks and remembrance for the over 1 Millions servicemen who have laid down there lives serving the cause of Freedom.  Why is Memorial day unique to the American culture, and how should Americans remember those who have paid the ultimate price to their nation?

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What can the Catholic Church do to help its Flock following Conclave?

So for the second time in the last decade the Vatican is electing a new Pontiff and the question around the world is:  'What will the new Pope's policy be'?  Will he be a force of modernization, in the vein of John Paul the 2nd, staunch Conservatism/Traditionalism like Benedict the 16th.  Regardless the outcome of the Papal Election, the first question the new Pop will undoubtedly ask is 'What Can I do too help my Flock'? The answer would be shocking:

(More after the Break)