The performance of the large American frigates may be partially attributable to the characteristics of American timber. https://www.quora.com/Why-did-USS-Const

The performance of the large American frigates may be partially attributable to the characteristics of American timber. https://www.quora.com/Why-did-USS-Constitution-bounce-cannon-balls-off-of-her-hull-Was-she-really-so-superior https://www.quora.com/Why-did-USS-Constitution-bounce-cannon... In Roman times, the British Isles were also a significant source of lead. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mining_in_Roman_Britain https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mining_in_Roman_Britain