Handcrafted Nautical Decor - Solid Brass Cannon Key Chain 5"

Used since the 13^th century in battles throughout the world, the cannon has become a symbol of strength and superiority, drastically changing the course of history. As with all other firearms the cannon relies on gunpowder, first developed in China in the 9^th century, to launch its deadly projectiles. Reproduced on these solid brass key rings the cannon became the most important weapon in nautical warfare during the Age of Sail. Between the mid-1500s and mid-1800s the cannons of these brass key rings were used primarily by the British and French fleets, battling over sea as they would on land. Although various existing ships were initially fit with cannons on deck, in the late 16^th century the first warship was created, built for speed and maneuverability, and outfitted with a row of cannons along each side. Like these brass key rings these cannons were solid and sturdy, capable of firing extremely heavy shot with unbelievable force. Aboard warships the broadside became a favored tactic at sea; as cannons lacked extreme accuracy ships would line up hull to hull and fire with repeated coordinated attacks. During the War of Spanish Succession, particularly Queen Anne’s War over the control of North America, many sailors learned the power of the cannon. After the war ended many of these sailors continued their lives at sea, raiding ships and becoming pirates. Using cannons, such as the ones on these brass key chains, pirates came to be feared by naval and private ships alike. Though the cannon possessed an unmatched destructive capability, many pirates used it as a means of terrorism, blasting off rounds to shock their victims into submission, making boarding ships easier while also preserving the merchandise. The cannons on these brass key chains are an enduring part of history, used still aboard ships of war, and becoming a symbol of true might.