carrack etymology

Etymology:

"Carrack" comes from the Medieval Latin word "carraca", which in turn is derived from the Arabic word "qirqār", meaning "creaking", referring to the sound made by the ship's sails when it moved.

Meaning:

A carrack is a large, multi-masted sailing ship that was used for exploration, trade, and warfare from the 13th to the 16th centuries.

Origin:

Carracks originated in the Mediterranean Sea around the 13th century. They were initially developed by the Italian city-states of Genoa and Venice, and later spread to other European maritime powers, including Portugal, Spain, and England. Carracks were particularly well-suited for long-distance voyages, as they were large and sturdy enough to withstand storms and carry large cargoes.

Notable Features:

  • Length: 200-300 feet (61-91 meters)
  • Height: 100-150 feet (30-46 meters)
  • Number of masts: 2-4
  • Sail area: 20,000-30,000 square feet (1,858-2,787 square meters)
  • Crew: 200-500 sailors

Historical Significance:

Carracks played a significant role in European exploration and trade during the Age of Exploration. Portuguese and Spanish carracks were used by explorers such as Vasco da Gama, Christopher Columbus, and Ferdinand Magellan to reach Asia and the Americas. Carracks also transported spices, textiles, and other valuable goods between Europe and the East Indies.

In the 16th century, carracks began to be replaced by smaller, more maneuverable galleons. However, they remained in use for several centuries for various purposes, such as cargo transport and naval warfare.

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