This new volume is intended to present a global vision of the development of the world's battleships in the first half of the 20th century. In a collection of chapters by experts from around the world, each of the world's navies is explored via the design, building and career of a significant battleship. In addition, the book also examines the communities of officers and men that served in those ships and, more broadly, the societies and nations that built them. While ships from the Royal Navy, the U.S. Navy, the Kriegsmarine, the Imperial Japanese Navy, the Marine Nationale and the Regia Navale are given significant coverage, so are those from the smaller navies, including Austria-Hungary, Russia, and Turkey. Each chapter explains the origins of a particular ship, her importance as a national symbol, and her place in the fleet. The genesis of her design along with particulars of her protection, armament, and propulsion systems are covered, and the construction process and launching described. The ship's complement and organization are detailed, and daily routine and watchstanding in both peace and war explained. Life on board the ship-eating and sleeping for officers, ratings, discipline, pay, morale, pets and mascots-are covered as well as a full account of the ship's career, so that the distinctive character of each vessel and navy emerges. This is a highly original and significant book and a must-have for individuals interested in ship history.