Ships and Empire: The Case of Spain

Abstract

The development of ships and shipbuilding in Spain through the 16^th and 17^th centuries is covered using Spanish sources. First are described types of ships, terms used, their advantages and limitations, particularly for the Indies fleets. Size was limited by the characteristics of the harbours and by the vulnerability of larger ships in Caribbean storms. The second section covers the organisation and operation of shipyards; hierarchy of personnel and the subsidies and ordinances that governed them. The third covers the historical development of shipbuilding, prosperity in 16^th century, decline and increase of foreign competition in 17^th.

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Filed under: Atlantic | Other (Early Modern) | Caribbean
Subjects include: Merchant Marines | Shipbuilding & Design