Q&A · 1:05:01-1:05:50

Overconfidence in the loss of the three Cressy-class cruisers

The brief assessment attributes the cruiser losses to misplaced British confidence about the danger they faced.

Cressy Class Armoured Cruisers Royal Navy Submarine Warfare U-Boats Warship Survivability World War I

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Question

How should the loss of the three Cressy-class cruisers be understood?

Short answer

As a case of overconfidence: the British believed they knew what they were doing and were safe when they were not.

Notes

The loss of the three Cressy-class cruisers is characterised as a case of overconfidence. The British believed they understood the situation and were safe, but that confidence was misplaced.