The development of the British Navy

In this podcast, Professor Bruce Collins of Sheffield Hallam University explores the development of the British navy during the French Wars and the 19th century. Professor Collins outlines the place of the navy in Britain’s psyche at the beginning of the French Wars and the importance of coastal transport, as well as the impact of the Navy on the increasingly important sphere of trade. He discusses the challenges faced at home and internationally as well as the reasons for British naval supremacy over the French, including the relative importance of Nelson in Napoleon’s defeat. He then traces the development of the Royal Navy until the end of the 19th century. 

1. The significance of the Navy to Britain; the French Wars
2. Why was the British Navy so superior?
3. Impressment and tactical innovation
4. How crucial was Nelson’s role?
5. The blockade on France
6. The development of the Navy after the Battle of Trafalgar
7. The Navy after Waterloo

See also: 

• Nelson and the Royal Navy by Professor Andrew Lambert
• The Development of the British Army by Professor Bruce Collins
• The evolution of military surgery by Michael Crumplin