Navies are critical for national security, economic prosperity, and global power projection. A large and well-armed navy can protect maritime commerce and deter aggression. And, of course, when necessary it can deliver incredible fire power.
As early as the 1300s, European states were establishing their navies in response to threats posed by their neighbors. A few countries became global sea powers as result. But what nations were the first to establish a formal navy, and how were they deployed?
This gallery explores history behind the creation of the 10 earliest navies in the world. Click on and sail the high seas to learn more.