Naval Biographical Database Seniority
	The formalisation of rank was a relatively late introduction, but even in the earlier years there was a requirement for a ‘pecking order' whether for half pay or employment as an Admiral.  It was not until the 1790s that the date of advancement or promotion ceased to be tied to a specific appointment.  This category will therefore take on a greater significance as I move forward in time. Although early seniority lists are something of an artificial 'construct', it is proving possible to build such lists for Warrant Officers. In the fullness of time, these will be available from about 1700, earlier for Masters. © CHD 2010