Sailor facts for kids
U.S. Navy sailor aboard a warship in September 2015
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Military and civilian |
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| Competencies | Physical Stamina Mindset |
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Navy, civilian companies and organizations |
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Related jobs
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Maritime |
A sailor is someone who works on a boat or ship. This job can also be called a seaman, mariner, or seafarer. Sailors are part of a ship's crew. They help operate and maintain the vessel.
The job of a sailor is very old. The word "sailor" comes from a time when sailing ships were the main way to travel by sea. Today, the term "sailor" includes anyone who works on any type of watercraft. This includes people who work on ships for their job or just for fun.
Sailors can work for a country's military navy. They can also work for a civilian merchant navy. A merchant navy carries goods or passengers. In a military navy, "sailor" might mean any member of the navy. This is true even if they work on land. The term seaman can also refer to a specific rank for new sailors.
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What Do Sailors Do?
Sailors have many important tasks. They help steer the ship and keep it running smoothly. They also make sure the ship's equipment is in good condition. This includes checking engines, navigation systems, and safety gear.
Working on Different Ships
Sailors work on many kinds of ships. Some work on large cargo ships that carry goods around the world. Others work on passenger ships, like cruise liners. There are also sailors on fishing boats, research vessels, and tugboats. Each type of ship needs different skills.
Military Sailors
Sailors in the military navy protect their country. They serve on warships, submarines, and aircraft carriers. Their duties can include defending national waters. They also help with disaster relief and international missions. Military sailors often have special training.
Civilian Sailors
Civilian sailors work for private companies. They transport goods, oil, or people. They might work on ferries, container ships, or oil tankers. Their main goal is to move cargo or passengers safely and efficiently. This job is vital for global trade.
History of Sailors
For thousands of years, people have sailed the seas. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used ships for trade and war. Explorers like Ferdinand Magellan sailed around the world. These early sailors faced many dangers. They relied on the wind and stars to navigate.
Life at Sea Long Ago
Life for sailors in the past was very tough. They often spent months or years away from home. Food and water could be scarce. Storms and diseases were common threats. Despite the hardships, sailors played a huge role in connecting the world. They helped discover new lands and trade routes.
Skills of a Sailor
To be a good sailor, you need several skills. You must be physically fit and have good stamina. This helps with the demanding work on a ship. Sailors also need a strong mindset. They must be able to stay calm in difficult situations.
Important Knowledge
Sailors learn about navigation, weather, and ship mechanics. They need to know how to use maps and modern navigation tools. Understanding weather patterns is key for safe travel. Knowing how to fix ship parts is also very important. Teamwork is essential for a ship's crew.
Images for kids
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The tanker SS Overseas Alice takes seas over the bow during a 1981 run from New Orleans to Panama.
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Portrait of a sailor taken on board the French aviso Ardent, 1857.
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Sailors on a ship
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Ferdinand Magellan led the first expedition that circumnavigated the globe in 1519–1522.
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Statue of a Mexican Navy sailor at the Naval History Museum.
See also
In Spanish: Marino para niños
