French Warships in the Age of Sail 1626-1786

In 1786 the French Navy had just emerged from its most successful war of the 18th century, having frequently outfought or outmanoeuvred the Royal Navy in battle, and made a major contribution to American independence.

The reputation of its ship design and fighting skills never stood higher, yet within a few years the effects of the French Revolution had devastated its efficiency, leading to defeat after defeat.

Fine ships continued to be built, but even under Napoleon's dynamic influence the navy never recovered sufficiently to alter the balance of sea power.

It was only after 1815 that the navy revived, espousing technical innovation and invention, to produce some of the most advanced ships of the age.

This book provides a comprehensive listing of these ships.