Why was Britain's Navy so important?

Answer 1

The "United Kingdom of Great Britain" came into existence on 1st May 1707

The British Navy therefore owes its existence mainly to the English navy which in the 200 years previously had been involved in many offensive and defensive conflicts.

The populist view of the Navy is based on a vision of great wartime battles such as Trafalgar or the important role the Navy played British Wars through out the 18th 19th & 20th Century

However the importance of the British Navy was far deeper to the nations growth, as it was crucial to the successful development of the British trading empire.

With sea lanes from America, to Africa, to India and even South East Asia to protect; and cargos such as cotton, tobacco and even slaves, the navy's strength allowed British merchants to successfully dominate these regions.

In one sentence, the Navy was crucial to the development and protection of the British Empire both geographically and financially.

Answer 2

Naval power was and remains so important because it can bring large amounts of firepower to nearly anywhere in the world. The navy is capable of blocking trade, destroying enemy assets, and crippling a country with little to no land trade routes.