Maritime Magnificence & Failure

The story of the immense Vasa Warship in Sweden is a warning from history for all leaders. Like in the story of "The Emperors New Clothes" obedient servants dared not challenge the ideas and beliefs of their masters resulting in a warship being built to such dramatic dimensions that it could never have survived for long on the high seas. However, rather than tell the truth to their arrogant leaders, the workers obeyed commands, boarded the doomed vessel, and ultimately, many of them died. The Vasa warship, designed to be the flag ship of Sweden's navy, sank on its maiden voyage. Even back then, charisma beat expertise. The Vasa is now housed in one of the world's best museums, which should absolutely not be missed by anyone visiting Stockholm.

Post by MikeJMJones | Aug 21, 2025