Since 1843, large paddle-frigates were built. The famous Battle of Trafalgar proved that the paddle wheel, which had to be on each side of the hull, both reduced the number of guns that could be mounted broadside and was also a vulnerable target. Only with the invention of the screw propeller were steam-powered warships practical. Cannons would not be obstructed, and the underwater propeller was out of harm's way.

The screw propeller was first used to good effect on a military vessel in 1852 when Le Napoleon became the very first ship that was equipped with screw propeller technology.  Although the British were better than the French in many nautical aspects, their screw -propeller battleships never surpassed Le Napoleon.

The introduction of Le Napoleon started one of the most furious arms races in the naval history.  In the next 10 years, over 100 large wooden steam battleships were built in Britain and France alone.

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Model Ship Master has very good information about this Le Napoleon ship and can build an excellent model for you.  The model will be completed in about 4 months following your commitment deposit.

40" long   $1,900    s&h $130                   Preorder deposit: $600

For display case, please click here:  https://www.modelshipmaster.com/products/accessory/displaycase.htm

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