During the 18th century the volume of London's trade grew dramatically.
Imports and exports increased because of the industrial and agricultural revolutions and the expansion of Britain's overseas interests.
London also became a major centre for shipbuilding and the making of scientific and navigational instruments.
By the end of the century the Thames could not cope with the huge numbers of vessels trying to use the port.
Maritime London timeline
1740s - Origins of what was to become the Baltic Exchange – the world's foremost ship brokers
1750s-90s - As trade expanded, the Pool of London became increasingly congested, with huge delays to shipping and severe losses because of theft
1799 - West India Dock authorised; the first of the major enclosed dock schemes promoted by merchants and ship owners
Britain and the world timeline
1760-1820 - Reign of King George III
1700s - Sugar from plantations in the West Indian colonies became a major commodity in international trade
1700s - Britain founded or captured several colonies, mainly at the expense of France
1783 - End of the American War of Independence; 13 of Britain's North American colonies form the United States
1793 - French Revolutionary War begins
Science and technology
1731 - Hadley's quadrant allows more accurate calculation of latitude at sea
1757 - Campbell's sextant allows the calculation of longitude at sea
1759 - Harrison's third timekeeper
1760s-80s - James Watt's steam engines and the textile machines of Arkwright and Crompton become key symbols of the technological changes associated with the 'Industrial Revolution'
The launch of HMS Alexander at Deptford in 1778. © NMM