From Antiquity to modern times, the Atlantic has been the subject of myths and legends. This volume by Paul Butel offers a global history of the ocean encompassing the exploits of adventurers, Vikings, explorers such as Christopher Columbus, emigrants, fishermen, and modern traders. The book also highlights the importance of the growth of ports such as New York and Liverpool and the battles of the Atlantic in the world wars of the 20th century. The author offers an examination of the legends of the ocean, beginning with the Phoenicians and Carthaginians navigating beyong the Pillars of Hercules, and details the exploitation and power struggles of the Atlantic through the centuries. The text surveys the important events in the Atlantic's history and comprehensively analyzes the changing fortunes of sea-going nations, including Britain, the United States and Germany.