US Navy Battleships 1895-1908: The Great White Fleet and the beginning of US global naval power

The final six classes of US predreadnought battleships were critical to the technological development of US battleships and were the first tool of international hard power wielded by the United States. This book examines the design, history, and technical qualities of these classes, which progressively closed the quality gap with European navies and compares them to their foreign contemporaries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 48 pages
Publication date: 17 September 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The United States Navy's final predreadnought battleships played a pivotal role in the technological advancement of these formidable vessels. These battleships were the first manifestation of American international hard power and served as a testament to the nation's eventual dominance in both politics and military affairs during the 20th century. During the 1907-09 Great White Fleet circumnavigation, these battleships showcased the emerging prowess and reach of the US Navy on a global scale. They also participated in the bombardment and landings at Veracruz, with some serving as convoy escorts during World War I. The last two battleships were transferred to the Hellenic Navy and tragically sank during World War II.

This comprehensive book delves into the design, history, and technical specifications of the final six classes of US predreadnought battleships. These classes gradually narrowed the quality gap with European navies, with the Connecticuts being considered the epitome of predreadnought battleships. The book also provides a comparative analysis of US predreadnought battleships with their foreign counterparts, shedding light on their unique characteristics and contributions to naval warfare.

Packed with numerous illustrations and specially commissioned artwork, this book serves as an indispensable guide to the development of US Navy Battleships at the turn of the 20th century. It offers a deep understanding of these iconic ships and their enduring impact on naval history. Whether you are a naval enthusiast, history buff, or student of military technology, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of battleships and the United States' role in shaping the world's naval landscape.

Weight: 172g
Dimension: 184 x 247 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472839985