Free Ships

Free Ships: The Restoration of the American Carrying Trade is a comprehensive exploration of the decline and potential revival of the United States’ merchant marine in the late 19th century. Authored by John Codman, this book delves into the historical, economic, and legislative factors that led to the waning of American shipping dominance after the Civil War. Codman meticulously examines the impact of restrictive navigation laws, foreign competition, and changing global trade dynamics on the American shipping industry. He argues passionately for the adoption of free ships—the policy of allowing American citizens to purchase and register foreign-built vessels under the U.S. flag—as a necessary reform to restore the nation’s commercial fleet and reclaim its place in international trade. Through detailed analysis, historical anecdotes, and persuasive reasoning, Codman presents the case for modernizing maritime policy to foster economic growth, national security, and international prestige. Free Ships serves as both a historical document and a call to action, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing American maritime commerce at the turn of the 20th century.