Impressment

Luke Clennell02

Captain John Quilliam RN

Easton Massacre Memorial

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The grave of Mary Way in St Georges churchyard - geograph.org.uk - 1178362

'The Neglected Tar'- a press gang seizing a seaman (caricature) RMG PU4772.f

Impressment refers to the act of forcibly enlisting men into military service, most commonly associated with the Royal Navy during the 18th and early 19th centuries. This practice played a significant role in naval history, particularly in the context of Great Britain's efforts to maintain its naval dominance. Impressment was one of the leading causes of tension between Great Britain and the United States leading up to the War of 1812.

History

The origins of impressment can be traced back to the medieval practice of press ganging, where men were compelled into military service for their lord or king. However, it became more structured and widespread with the growth of the Royal Navy. During times of war, the British government authorized officers to take men into service without their consent. This was seen as necessary to meet the manpower demands of expanding naval operations.

Legal Basis

The legal framework for impressment was established through various Acts of Parliament. The Vagrancy Act 1597, for instance, allowed for the impressment of vagabonds and idle persons into military service. Over time, these laws were expanded to give the Royal Navy the authority to impress seamen from merchant ships and coastal communities.

Impressment in the Royal Navy

In the Royal Navy, impressment was primarily used to crew warships. Press gangs, which were groups of officers and sailors, would raid taverns, inns, and other places to seize men for service. While the focus was on seamen, who had the necessary skills for naval service, many landmen were also taken. The conditions on board naval ships were harsh, and impressment was deeply unpopular among the general population.

Impact on Anglo-American Relations

Impressment was a major grievance for the United States in the lead-up to the War of 1812. American sailors were often taken by the Royal Navy, which claimed the right to reclaim British deserters. However, the lack of formal naturalization procedures and the Royal Navy's refusal to recognize American citizenship meant that many American citizens were also impressed. This practice, along with other issues such as trade restrictions, contributed to the outbreak of war between Britain and the United States.

Decline and Abolition

The use of impressment declined following the end of the Napoleonic Wars. The Royal Navy's manpower needs decreased, and public opposition to the practice grew. The Merchant Shipping Act 1854 formally abolished impressment, although it had largely fallen out of use by that time.

Legacy

Impressment left a lasting impact on naval warfare, Anglo-American relations, and the development of maritime law. It highlighted the tensions between individual rights and state needs, contributing to the evolution of conscription practices and citizenship laws.