So why ‘clipper’, and what caused the term?
The term ‘clipper’ was probably first used in the USA around 1812 – 18.
Although boats were constructed in Great Britain from ancient times, what became known as “fast” trading, or ‘merchant’, ships were built in Scotland from the late 18th century. By 1780 sizeable two and three mast ships were traversing continental waters – and further over the ‘high seas’.
Great Britain was a classic maritime nation, surrounded by water . . . . .