In the years following the American Revolution, speed was the most important consideration for any ship even if it came at the expense of cargo space. Sailing ships tended to be small and swift so that they could outrun and outmaneuver British, French, or pirate vessels trying to capture them. By 1830, this threat had largely been eliminated, and a new type of clipper ship was developed. From 1841 through 1860, "extreme clippers" dominated the trade to Asia. These ships were large, carrying huge, lucrative cargoes of tea, spices,textiles, and chinaware to consumers in America and Europe.