Aspects of the British Naval Technical Revolution (1830–1853)

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.54664/KEUJ2703

Abstract:

Speed, armament and protection – these three mutually exclusive aspects dominate the naval thought in the peace years after 1815. Their balancing and gradual integration excited a number of military constructors and political figures. In the years under consideration, the Admiralty adopts the evolutionary approach to the integration of new technologies, as well as the pattern of error and sampling. The unknowns are many, and the Crown’s competitors in the World Ocean are gradually growing. The answer to the question, what exactly is driving the society to these innovations – the very need for such or the reaction to the achievements of the direct adversaries. The answer may be rooted in both directions. For several decades, the Admiralty has relied on and granted funding for the development and construction of technically inferior paddle steam boats, but at the same time it does not concede that these vessels play a secondary role in the Royal Navy. This concept is retained until the launch of H.M.S. Agamemnon, which is the first ship of the line with screw propeller. Despite the advantages of the perfected steam engine and the high speed, the vessel carries a full square rig on three masts. The sails will remain leading component for a long time. Advancements in firepower and the adoption of the exploding shell will send shockwaves through the continent which will eventually lead to the creation of the ironclad. It is also appropriate to take into account the contribution of individuals who see the processes in their opening stage and are able to focus the public attention on the questions of the day.

Keywords:

Admiralty, Royal Navy, Steam Power, Ship of the Line, Ironclad, Explosive shells.

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