Which warship was viewed as the primary combat vessel of the 18th century?

The ship-of-the-line was regarded as the primary combat vessel of the 18th century due to its design and strategic role in naval warfare. Characterized by a robust and heavily armed configuration, these vessels were typically the largest and most formidable ships in a navy's fleet. Ship-of-the-line were constructed to engage effectively in sailing battles, often arranged in lines to maximize their broadside firepower against enemy ships.

This type of ship carried multiple decks of cannons, allowing for significant firepower and broadside capability, which was essential during the age of sail. The effectiveness and dominance of ship-of-the-line in naval engagements established their pinnacle position within naval strategy and warfare throughout the 18th century, leading to their status as the backbone of major naval powers during this period.

Other vessels like frigates, sloops-of-war, and corvettes had specific roles, such as scouting, escort, or piracy suppression, but none matched the overall combat purpose and impact of the ship-of-the-line in fleet actions during this era.