Roland Wenzlhuemer: Raise, Reuse, Recycle

German Historical Institute London Podcast

Oceans and seas have long been a focal point in historiography, particularly in the field of global history, which emphasizes the connective power of these vast bodies of water. This focus naturally extends to the study of seafaring, shipbuilding, and maritime infrastructures. Yet while global history highlights oceanic linkages, it has also acknowledged the inherent dangers and uncertainties of seafaring, from the so-called Age of Exploration through to the twentieth century. Shipwrecks—ranging from minor groundings to catastrophic maritime disasters —have always played a central role in maritime history. Historians of this field have recognized the disruptive effects of these wrecks and have examined the development of maritime security and insurance systems designed to mitigate risks, safeguarding both passengers and investors alike. But what of the wrecked ship itself, its lost cargo, and the tragic fate of its crew? What about the environmental or navigational hazards posed by these wrecks? And what of the symbolic weight that many sunken ships carry? This talk turns the spotlight on marine salvage and its significance in global history. Salvage operations, as ancient as seafaring itself, primarily aim to recover valuable resources or clear hazardous wreckage. At times, they also seek to uncover the causes of maritime accidents or to retrieve vessels of particular symbolic importance. In any case, salvage work is a complex endeavour, fraught with nautical, technical, environmental, and legal challenges. And studying this practice offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of global connections and disconnections—insights this talk aims to explore.