This section brings together the approximately 700 objects and photographs used in Canada's Naval History. Use this section to directly access objects and photographs grouped by type, as shown below, or use the search function above to search through them by title.

First World War Atlantic Convoy

This photograph shows six merchant ships in a First World War Atlantic convoy.

In response to increasing merchant ship losses caused by German U-Boats (submarines), the British Admiralty introduced convoys in 1917. By grouping together merchant ships and providing them with escorting warships, the U-Boats' task of finding and sinking ships was made much harder, and Allied shipping losses fell significantly. This photograph was likely taken by Sub-Lieutenant Arthur Rankin, the navigation officer aboard HMCS Canada, which helped escort convoys off Canada's east coast.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 20080041-027