History
In sailing ships, the quarterdeck was that part of the main deck abaft the mainmast. The captain or master commanded the ship from the quarterdeck, as there was no bridge to serve this purpose. The quarterdeck was traditionally the place where the captain walked when on deck, usually on the windward side. The navigator also used it when taking his sights when fixing the vessel's position. On most ships, it was customary that only officers could use the quarterdeck, others being allowed there only when assigned for specific duties.
As powered ships came into use, the term was applied to the same approximate area of the ship. Today, quarterdeck refers not to a specific deck, but to a ceremonial area designated as such by the captain. As in the days of sail, it is a place where the captain has special control and prerogatives.
There are ancient traditions of offering special deference to the quarterdeck. Greek, Roman, and Carthaginian warships all carried pagan shrines which were given special respect. This continued into Christian times, and in medieval British warships, the religious shrine was set up on the quarterdeck. All hands were required to salute it by taking off their hats or caps. This led to the habit of saluting whenever one entered the quarterdeck.
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