The Smugglers: Picturesque Chapters in the Story of an Ancient Craft

Name: The Smugglers: Picturesque Chapters in the Story of an Ancient Craft
Author: Charles G. Harper

By Charles G. Harper

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History - British History - Modern (1750+)History - Warfare

About This Book

The author surveys coastal and inland smuggling in England, from historic export evasion to the eighteenth- and nineteenth-century trade in tea, tobacco, and spirits. The narrative weaves regional case studies of raids, violent clashes, and local epitaphs with profiles of well-known smugglers and families, practical descriptions of concealment methods and routes, and explanations of enforcement measures such as preventive services and the coastguard. Illustrated anecdotes and archival extracts illuminate popular attitudes and economic motives behind contraband, and the book presents these episodes as factual reportage rather than a polemic for or against customs policy.

About the Author

Charles G. Harper

Charles G. Harper was a prolific English author and illustrator known for his works that explore the history and culture of travel in Britain. His notable titles include "Cycle Rides Round London" and "From Paddington to Penzance," which reflect his passion for the English landscape and its historical narratives. Harper's writing often combines vivid descriptions with a sense of adventure, making his travelogues both informative and engaging. He also contributed to the genre of picturesque biographies with works like "Half-hours with the Highwaymen," showcasing his interest in the colorful characters of British history. His diverse body of work continues to be appreciated for its charm and historical insight.