Copenhagen belonged to a wider contest over access and influence in the Baltic. British leaders feared that Denmark might support France and that Danish or Russian fleets could close access to Scandinavian timber needed for warship masts. After defeating the Danes, the fleet gave Russia a practical demonstration that British sea power could reach into the Baltic. The campaign joined combat and coercive diplomacy to the material supply chain that kept a sailing navy operational.
Notable Point · 16:43-17:41
Copenhagen and control of the Baltic
The campaign sought to prevent Danish and Russian pressure on Britain while preserving access to Scandinavian timber needed for warship masts.