They were often allowed to cruise independently, searching for enemy targets of opportunity, or attached to large fleets as scouts, pickets, and couriers. These ships were not designed to fight on the line, but were used as “cruisers” because of their speed, maneuverability, and range. The most famous example, HMS Victory, Admiral Nelson’s flagship at Trafalgar, mounted 104 cannon, firing a broadside weight of 1,148 pounds, and needed a crew of 800 to fight and sail.ĭuring the American Revolution and War of 1812, the large fleet battles of Europe were rare, with combats between smaller Frigates, Sloops, and Brigs far more common. The largest, first-rates, were massive in terms of size and firepower. The third-rate formed the backbone of many navies, especially the British, and usually mounted seventy-four guns on three decks, with a crew of up to 700 men. These slow and heavily armed ships would form the core of a battle line and exchange fire with their similarly sized adversaries.

The largest naval vessels were the ships of the line and often classified by the British rating system: first-rate, second-rate, and third-rate. It is important to understand the different types of warship that plied the waves during this period, which applies to both the American Revolution and War of 1812. Because of a ship’s dependence on the wind for propulsion, combat often resembled a deadly dance between combatants, which could disintegrate into a bloody close-range brawl.

Sailing ships were virtually floating villages, with the largest ships of the line armed with more artillery than some armies. Naval combat in the Age of Sail, which lasted from the 16th to mid-19th century, may seem strange to the modern eye. Saved Land Browse Interactive Map View active campaigns.Stop the Largest Rezoning in Orange County History.

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