About The Department

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Ships are among the most powerful artifacts made by the hand of man. They have transcended mere practical use and become instruments of great influence. The inventiveness of the human race in overcoming the challenges of the natural environment is a recurring theme in history, and is one in which the ship plays a significant role.

During our great era of conquest, we explored by ship; shifted whole populations by ships, fought battles and dominated continents by ships. At a more important level, we continue to supply our daily needs by ships, transporting huge quantities of the world's natural resources and our own manufactured goods around the globe.