Why France built the Danton class after Dreadnought

A dreadnought required a large hull, many heavy guns, multiple turrets, and fire-control systems that France was still learning to produce reliably. The Dantons, like the Lord Nelson class, were semi-dreadnoughts built after the dreadnought type appeared. Colonial and Mediterranean duties did not always demand the newest battleship type because most likely opponents were cruisers or older capital ships. The Dantons' numerous 9.4-inch guns suited a close, maneuvering fight in which rate of fire mattered more than maximum long-range performance. A Tsushima-style standoff battle is contrasted with the swirling close action of Trafalgar or Lissa, where the Dantons' faster-firing guns would matter more. They are described as remaining in service until 1937, an example of a design retaining value even when it did not match the type that defined its era.