Bredth Study - Navy Reforms

Question 1

Background

Answer 1

• 1815 = naval superpower.
• 1817, only 13 battleships on active duty, previously >100.
• 1860, HMS Warrior was first fully iron warship. Wooden prior. New shells explosive.
• 1873, HMS Devastation, first entirely steam powered ship, all previous (man/wind powered) ships obsolete.

Question 2

Grahams Reforms

Answer 2

• 1832.
• Make navy strong again, most ships carried 74 guns.
• Those inactive in ports trained so they could be called upon.
• Minimum amount of service before moving up ranks introduced.
• Abolished Victualing Board + Naval Office, control in navy not government. Communication and regulation easier and more efficient.
• Naval officer in charge of biggest navy ports (Plymouth + Portsmouth). Greater efficiency serving + supplying ships.

Question 3

Why was the Fishers Reforms Introduced

Answer 3

• Navy adopted Two Power Standard, naval strength should = its 2 biggest rivals.
• Tech + innovation transformed naval warfare, needed to attain an unchallengable position.
• 1906, Germany 2nd largest, arms race = WW1?

Question 4

Fisher Reform Changes

Answer 4

• 1904.
• Officers educated together until 22yrs old. More academic + navally skilled.
• Sold 90 ships and 64 put in reserve. Balanced budget.
• Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve to supplement Royal Navy Reserve.
• Mediterranean fleet 18 –> 12, wanted to keep Germany in check.