David Starkey (maritime historian)

David Starkey is a British maritime historian, curator, and author known for his expertise in naval history, particularly of the 17th and 18th centuries. He has written extensively on British naval power, maritime trade, and the lives of sailors during the age of sail.

Starkey's career has been largely based at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, London. He served as its Head of Research and later as Senior Curator, playing a significant role in developing its collections and interpreting British maritime heritage for the public. His research has contributed to a greater understanding of the social, economic, and political contexts of naval warfare and maritime activity.

His published works include books exploring the lives and conditions of sailors, the development of the Royal Navy, and the impact of maritime power on British society. Starkey’s work often focuses on the experiences of ordinary seafarers, moving beyond purely strategic or technological accounts of naval history. He has also contributed to academic journals and conferences, sharing his research with fellow historians.

Starkey's contributions have helped to shape the field of maritime history and have provided valuable insights into the lives and experiences of those who sailed the seas in past centuries.