How a single clipper ship became the enduring symbol of a global maritime empire.

Exploring the History of the Cutty Sark | Lloyd’s Register Foundation · 28:11 · Video: History Hit · Watch at the source

In short: Dan Snow explores the history of the Cutty Sark, the fastest sail-powered cargo ship of the late 19th century. By examining the Lloyd’s Register Foundation archives, the video reveals how meticulous record-keeping supported British maritime dominance and global trade.

The Cutty Sark stands as the premier example of 19th-century sail-powered cargo transport. While often viewed as a symbol of the British Empire, its true significance lies in the complex systems of enterprise and service that underpinned global shipping.

Through the Lloyd’s Register Foundation archives, researchers Max Wilson and Zach Schieferstein investigate how detailed vessel registration facilitated Britain's maritime strength. The collection offers a unique window into the logistical infrastructure that allowed the nation to project power across the world's oceans.

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