Warships of this era were complex products of difficult design compromises that had to balance speed, safety, cargo capacity, and firepower.

“They are this they're a product of hellish compromises because you can build a boat that goes fast. You can build a boat that's safe in big storms. You can build a boat that can carry lots of goods and make lots of money when you get home. Or you can build a boat that can put lots of cannon on”