Britain's war with France, which commenced in 1793, resulted in a significant demand for soldiers, marines and seamen. In January, the requirement for the Royal Navy was set at 25,000 men, later increased by Parliament to 45,000, a goal reached primarily through the efforts of the Impress Service (press gangs). By January 1794, the demand had risen to 85,000 men, a figure that was met with considerable difficulty. Twelve months later, the number required was further increased to 100,000 men, prompting urgent action to raise this huge number.
As the availability of seamen diminished, William Pitt the Younger, the prime minister, sought to recruit from among non-seamen, or ‘landsmen’ as they were generally known, through the introduction of several Quota Acts in March and April 1795. Additional Acts passed in…
