This meticulously researched book examines the evolution of battleships prior to HMS Dreadnought in the early 20th century. The book provides vivid accounts of the operations in which these groundbreaking vessels played a crucial role, the commanders in charge, and the people instrumental in their design. It features a comprehensive country-by-country directory of more than 60 of the battleships of the era, providing lively facts about the history, construction, appearance and function of each.With more than 200 photographs, illustrations and paintings, the book is a must-have for anyone interested in the history of ships and the conflicts of the period.