When was the Naval Academy Founded?
The United States Naval Academy, also known as the Naval Academy or simply Annapolis, is a four-year federal service academy located in Annapolis, Maryland. The academy was founded on October 10, 1845, by Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft, who signed the legislation that established the institution.
Early History
The idea of a naval academy in the United States dates back to the early 19th century. In 1816, the United States Navy established a school for midshipmen at Norfolk, Virginia, which was later moved to Philadelphia in 1825. However, this school was not a formal academy and did not provide a comprehensive education to its students.
The Founding of the Naval Academy
In the 1840s, the United States Navy was facing a number of challenges, including a shortage of qualified officers and a lack of standardized training for its midshipmen. In response to these challenges, Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft proposed the establishment of a formal naval academy.
On October 10, 1845, Bancroft signed the legislation that established the United States Naval Academy. The academy was initially located in Old South College, a building that was donated by the State of Maryland. The first class of midshipmen, known as the "Class of 1846," consisted of 50 students who were admitted to the academy in June 1846.
The First Years
The early years of the Naval Academy were marked by a number of challenges, including a lack of facilities, a shortage of qualified instructors, and a high rate of attrition among the midshipmen. Despite these challenges, the academy continued to grow and develop, and in 1850, it was officially designated as a four-year institution.
The American Civil War
During the American Civil War, the Naval Academy played an important role in the training of naval officers. Many of the academy’s graduates went on to serve in the Union Navy, and the academy’s faculty and staff played a key role in the development of naval strategy and tactics.
The Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Naval Academy underwent a number of significant changes. In 1890, the academy’s curriculum was expanded to include courses in engineering, mathematics, and science. In 1911, the academy’s athletic program was established, and the Midshipmen football team was formed.
World War II and the Cold War
During World War II, the Naval Academy played an important role in the training of naval officers. Many of the academy’s graduates went on to serve in the war, and the academy’s faculty and staff played a key role in the development of naval strategy and tactics.
Modern Era
In the modern era, the Naval Academy has continued to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances. In the 1960s and 1970s, the academy underwent a number of significant changes, including the introduction of coeducation and the expansion of the academy’s curriculum to include courses in international relations and national security.
Today
Today, the United States Naval Academy is a highly respected institution that is known for its rigorous academic program, its strong athletic teams, and its commitment to producing well-rounded and highly qualified naval officers. The academy’s curriculum includes courses in a wide range of subjects, including engineering, mathematics, science, and the humanities.
Table: Naval Academy Curriculum
| Subject | Courses |
|---|---|
| Engineering | Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Naval Architecture |
| Mathematics | Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations |
| Science | Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Oceanography |
| Humanities | English, History, Philosophy, International Relations |
Conclusion
The United States Naval Academy was founded on October 10, 1845, by Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft. The academy has a long and proud history, and it continues to play an important role in the training of naval officers. From its early days as a small school for midshipmen to its current status as a highly respected institution, the Naval Academy has always been committed to producing well-rounded and highly qualified naval officers.
Bullets List: Naval Academy’s Mission
• To develop midshipmen into commissioned officers in the United States Navy and Marine Corps
• To provide a comprehensive education that prepares midshipmen for a lifetime of service
• To foster a sense of community and camaraderie among midshipmen
• To promote the values of honor, courage, and commitment
• To prepare midshipmen for a wide range of careers in the Navy and Marine Corps
