The Wooden Navy

Question 1

Royal Navy’s Primary Roles

Answer 1

• Protect Britain from invasion
• Blockade
• Engage with the enemy whenever, wherever

Question 2

Navy important roles

Answer 2

• Command colonial waters, capture enemy colonies
• Protect British Merchant fleet
• Expand the navy through the ‘Prize’ system
• Transportation of troops and communications

Question 3

Life and Society in the Wooden World

Answer 3

• Wives as well as men on the ship
• Diet important to stay healthy- fresh meat and veg
• Work and discipline hard
• Inspired due to Prize money

Question 4

Class Hierarchy:

Answer 4

• Officers- middle class/low aristocrat- did not purchase commissions like in the army
• Artisans and skilled workers were employed by Navy for various reasons.
• Majority of normal seamen- ‘Jack Tar’ joined to escape poverty or prison. Naval life offered food, discipline and pay. Many ordinary seamen ‘pressed’ into service.
  Young boys served on ships (8+ years of age)