From the floating fire the Greeks used to see off their enemies, to the sinking of 20th century warships, we delve into some fascinating stories of war and weapons. Plus, read all about the Battle of the Glorious First of June - the first sea battle between the Brits and the French during the French Revolutionary Wars.

01 Nov 2019
Wars of Peace: Royal Navy Operations 1918 to 1923
World War I might have ended for some in 1919, but for others fighting continued, whether they liked it or not. 
16 Jun 2017
‘A most lamentable and deplorable theme’
This June marks the 350th anniversary of the Dutch Raid on the Medway which took place 9-14 June 1667. It was humiliating for the English Navy resulting in the loss of thirteen English ships, with the Unity and Royal Charles captured. Mike Bevan, archivist at the Caird Library, takes a closer look.   
28 Sep 2016
Richard Livesay and the Battle of the Glorious First of June
One unassuming print in our collection reveals a different perspective to the extraordinary celebrations that followed the Battle of the Glorious First June. Hazel Vidler, Ship Portrait volunteer, reveals more.
11 Nov 2015
Remembrance Day – “Many there be that have no memorial”
On Remembrance Day we look at the conservation of two memorial busts ‘intended to record the rank and file who have gained no mention or special distinction’.
Battle of the Glorious First of June
The Battle of the Glorious First of June in 1794 was the first naval conflict between the British and the French during the French Revolutionary Wars.
Greek fire
Greek fire was a weapon used by the Byzantine Empire in naval warfare. It was effective as it continued to burn on water.
The Sinking of the Lusitania
The Lusitania was one of the great cruise liners of her day. The sinking of the passenger ship off Ireland in 1915 will live in infamy.
HMS Terrible
HMS Terrible played a decisive role in two imperial wars and ended her days being broken up and parts of her sold as souvenirs.
What was a carronade?
Carronades were short heavy guns, similar to canon, used by the British Royal Navy on battleships from the late 18th century until about 1820.
Admiral John Byng
John Byng (1704–57) was a Vice-Admiral in the Royal Navy. He is best known for the loss of Minorca to the French at the Battle of Minorca, marking the start of the Seven Years War in 1756.