On August 10, 1628, Vasa, the would-be jewel of Sweden’s navy sank only minutes after departing Stockholm. This tragedy – that claimed the lives of 30 of those on board – launched an inquest probing how the hulking 64-cannon ship met such an shameful end.
Since the ship still exists almost in its entirety – held at a dedicated museum near Stockholm – we know that investigation was largely correct in its findings.
On the day itself, Vasa set sail on calm waters. Around 20 minutes into its maiden voyage the ship leaned – or heeled in nautical terms – to its port side after a gust of wind. Another gust tipped the boat even more, causing water to wash in through the gun ports. Shortly after, Vasa toppled and sank.
Initially, suspicion fell upon the captain and the crew. That included questions about their competence in tying down the ...
