An ironclad warship is a type of steam-propelled naval vessel that is protected by iron or steel armor plates. Developed in the mid-19th century, these ships were designed to withstand cannon fire and were a significant advancement in naval technology. The first notable ironclad was the HMS Warrior, launched in 1860, which marked a shift from wooden ships to armored vessels. Ironclads played a crucial role during the American Civil War, particularly in the famous battle between the USS Monitor and the CSS Virginia. Their introduction changed naval warfare, leading to the decline of traditional wooden ships and influencing the design of future warships.