HMS Defiance (1744) facts for kids
Defiance (foreground, left of centre) at the action of 8 June 1755
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Quick facts for kids History |
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.svg){kind=small} Great Britain |
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| Name | HMS Defiance |
| Builder | West, Deptford |
| Launched | 12 October 1744 |
| Honours and awards |
Second battle of Cape Finisterre, 1747 |
| Fate | Sold, 1766 |
| General characteristics | |
| Class and type | 1741 proposals 58-gun fourth rate ship of the line |
| Tons burthen | 1136 |
| Length | 147 ft (44.8 m) (gundeck) |
| Beam | 42 ft (12.8 m) |
| Depth of hold | 18 ft 1 in (5.5 m) |
| Propulsion | Sails |
| Sail plan | Full-rigged ship |
| Armament |
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HMS Defiance was a powerful warship that served in the Royal Navy during the 1700s. It was a 58-gun ship of the line, meaning it was a large sailing warship designed for naval battles. Defiance was built in Deptford, England, and was launched on October 12, 1744.
Life as a Warship
HMS Defiance was built according to special plans from 1741. These plans helped make sure British warships were strong and effective. As a "fourth-rate" ship, it carried a good number of cannons. These cannons were placed on different decks of the ship. For example, the main deck had 24 heavy 24-pounder guns.
A Surprising Mix-Up
In November 1745, something unusual happened. Defiance came across another British warship, HMS Hampton Court. Both ships thought the other was a French enemy vessel. They started firing at each other from a distance. The battle lasted about 30 minutes. Finally, the crew on Defiance saw British markings on the cannonballs hitting their ship. They quickly signaled for a stop to the fighting. It was a big relief to realize they were friends!
Helping in the Seven Years' War
Defiance played a part in the Seven Years' War, a major global conflict. In 1758, it joined a large Royal Navy fleet. This fleet was planning to attack the French fortress at Louisbourg in North America. Before the main attack, Defiance had an important success. It captured a French ship that was carrying vital supplies. These supplies included food and military equipment. They were on their way to the French fortress. Capturing this ship helped the British and hurt the French.
The End of Service
After years of service, HMS Defiance was no longer needed by the Navy. In 1766, the ship was sold. This marked the end of its career as a Royal Navy warship.
