When Did the U.S Navy Begin? A Brief History
The United States Navy (USN) is one of the most powerful and respected navies in the world. With a rich history dating back to the 18th century, the Navy has played a significant role in shaping the country’s destiny and protecting its interests. But when did it all begin?
Colonial Era and the Continental Congress
In 1775, the American colonies were involved in the American Revolutionary War against Great Britain. Despite the colonists’ fledgling naval capabilities, they were able to create a few small ships, including the USS Providence (1748) and the USS Massachusetts (1740), which were used primarily for transportation and trade. However, these vessels were not part of an organized naval force.
As the war progressed, the Continental Congress recognized the need for a more coordinated naval effort. On October 13, 1775, the Continental Navy was formally established by an act of Congress, with 13 ships and a staff of around 1,000 officers and sailors.
First Ships and Commissioned Officers
The initial fleet of ships was meager, consisting of mostly converted merchant vessels and newly built frigates:
| Ship | Class | Guns | Launched |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alfred | Sloop | 8 | 1777 |
| Boston | Galley | 10 | 1775 |
| Providence | Sloop | 6 | 1756 |
| Randolph | Sloop | 18 | 1776 |
Some of the notable first commissioned officers include:
- Esek Hopkins, the Continental Navy’s first commander-in-chief
- John Paul Jones, a Scottish sailor who served as a junior officer on the USS John (1775)
- James Wilson, a Marine Corps officer who later went on to become a US Senator and Supreme Court justice
Early Conflicts and Successes
Between 1775 and 1783, the Continental Navy faced numerous challenges and successes:
- Early struggles: The Continental Navy was often outgunned and outnumbered by British warships, leading to a series of defeats. For example, the HMS HMS Edinburgh captured the Continental Navy’s flagship, USS Providence, in 1777.
- Rebel raids: In response to the Continental Navy’s vulnerabilities, British warships preyed upon American merchant ships and coastal towns. Examples include the burning of Kingston, Rhode Island, in 1778 and the sinking of the USS Washington (1776) during a battle with the British frigate HMS Huzzah (1778).
After the Revolutionary War
After the American Revolution, the Continental Navy ceased to exist, and most of its ships were dismantled or sold. During the War of 1812, the United States began rebuilding its naval strength, leading to the re-establishment of the Navy in 1794, when Congress passed a law to create a unified naval force.
Key figures involved in the 1794 re-establishment of the Navy include:
- George Washington, who wrote to Congress endorsing the idea of a United States Navy
- John Adams, who sponsored the Naval Act of 1794
- Benjamin Stoddert, who served as the first Secretary of the Navy (1798-1801)
The modern United States Navy has since grown significantly, playing a crucial role in maintaining global security and defending American interests.
In conclusion, the United States Navy has a rich history dating back to the early years of the American colonies. October 13, 1775, is considered the official birthday of the Continental Navy, though the institution underwent significant growth and evolution over the decades. The Navy’s commitment to defending American interests continues to shape its role as a respected and powerful naval force worldwide.
