Most of the time it is impossible to find exact time, date or occurring of any event from the history there are several different reports about any event.
Splice the mainbrace circa 1650, an order given to the aboard naval crew to issue rum or grog to the crew. Generally talking most of the people believe “Man-O-War” a British war ship issued 4 liters of beer to their crew every day but few think that while on the ship who ever does the major difficult emergency fix jobs on the ship, were rewarded with the drink became a difficult job aboard the ship make that particular crew member a celebrity and to celebrate that moment they use to issue that drink.
Off-course by issuing that galleon of rum, beer or grog would have made life much more bearable for on board crew. No one is certain about the amount or strength of the drink issued, but according to my belief the amount could vary from fleet to fleet according to the conditions.
According to the historians most of the time “Spliced the MainBrace” was supplied under the conditions as mentioned above but some time afterwards it became customary to celebrate “Splice the Mainbrace” before battle.
Splice the Mainbrace most definitely become customary always after victory in war. In those days reward a ship’s crew, becomes easier when they started supplying with the order of “Splice the Mainbrace” that means a double issue of rum, beer or grog for a job well done.
But as you know excess of anything and everything can end-up in a disaster so as with “Splice the Mainbrace”. Pusser’s Rum Ration (A.K.A TOT) becomes the cause of crime and resulting punishments within the British Navy much more than any other reason. Beer issue continues to this day and minor officers’ messes are permitted limited spirits.
When Prince William was born war ship Queen Elizabeth II was ordered “Splice the Mainbrace”.
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