Seventy-two years separate Zonchio in 1499 from Lepanto in 1571. Cannon were already being used by both sides at Zonchio, while the later battle is associated here with widespread recognition of their future importance at sea. Weapons hailed as revolutionary may have been in service for decades before acquiring that reputation. Their eventual tactical effect can also differ from the role first advertised for them.
Notable Point · 56:28-57:53
The 72 years between Zonchio and Lepanto
The comparison between Zonchio in 1499 and Lepanto in 1571 separates the arrival of cannon in a battle from their later reputation as a weapon that would transform naval warfare.