Portuguese corvette Afonso de Albuquerque (1884) facts for kids
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Quick facts for kids History |
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 Kingdom of Portugal |
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| Name | Afonso de Albuquerque |
| Operator | Portuguese Navy |
| Builder | Thames Iron Works |
| Launched | 1884 |
| General characteristics | |
| Type | sloop or unprotected cruiser |
| Displacement | 1092 t |
| Length | 203 ft 6 in (62.03 m) |
| Propulsion | 1360 ihp |
| Speed | 13.3 kn (15.3 mph; 24.6 km/h) |
| Armament |
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The Afonso de Albuquerque was a special kind of warship used by the Portuguese Navy. It was called a "sloop" or a small "unprotected cruiser." In Portugal, it was known as a "corvette." This ship was named after Afonso de Albuquerque, a famous Portuguese general from the 1500s.
The ship was launched in 1885. It served the Portuguese Navy for many years before being taken out of service in 1909.
What Was the Afonso de Albuquerque?
The Afonso de Albuquerque was a medium-sized warship. It was bigger than most gunboats, which are small ships with guns. However, it was not as strong as a "protected cruiser," which had more armor.
This ship was built to help Portugal manage its colonies around the world. It was designed for duties like patrolling coasts and showing the flag.
How Was It Used?
During the time of steamships, some navies, like the Royal Navy (the British Navy), used the term "sloop" for larger gunboats. The Afonso de Albuquerque fit this description well. It was a good size for colonial tasks.
Comparing Ships
The Afonso de Albuquerque was similar in size and speed to some Spanish ships. For example, it was like the "Velasco class" cruisers used by Spain. These Spanish ships also performed colonial duties.
