For student and professional alike this book provides an all-encompassing overview of the modern theory of global ship strength. Novices will find clear descriptions of the well-established methods, both mathematical and numerical, used worldwide currently. Researchers will find detailed descriptions of the ideas underlying the theoretical basis of modern techniques whereas professionals will benefit from the fundamentals of research results that have found application in recent rules and design practice. Covering both state-of-practice and state-of-the-art of the subject in a modern and up-to-date manner, readers will gain a deeper understanding. This book includes many examples of the application of the theory to problems providing the foundation to developing software. One chapter is dedicated to tracing the development of ship structural design from prehistory to today, allowing the reader to comprehend how design and construction practice has evolved and the pivotal turning points in a long and diverse pattern of development.