OTSUSTAMATUS MERESÕJAS XVIII SAJANDIL
INDECISIVENESS IN 18TH CENTURY NAVAL WARFARE

Summary/Abstract: The concept of ‘persistent indecisiveness’ in 18th century warfare, as described by Professor Russell Weigley, highlights the era’s characteristic lack of decisive battles. Despite some bloody engagements, wars were generally concluded by negotiations rather than clear victories when one or both parties had exhausted their resources. This indecisiveness extended to naval warfare where technical limitations, rigid instructions of fighting, and the physical and organisational challenges of managing fleets contributed to the inability to achieve any decisive outcomes. The British Navy’s eventual dominance was shaped by superior seamanship, effective artillery, and aggressiveness leading to a ‘habit of victory’ despite the challenges posed by opponents’ more sophisticated schemes and often larger and better-built ships. The article explores the evolution of naval tactics, the impact of leadership and an organisational culture, and the strategic implications of seemingly inconclusive battles.

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