When was the U.S navy founded?

The Birth of the United States Navy

The United States Navy (USN) is the oldest and largest sea force in the world. But when was it founded, and what led to its creation? In this article, we’ll explore the history of the U.S. Navy and highlight significant milestones in its evolution.

The Early Years (1775-1776)

The U.S. Navy was officially established on October 13, 1775, during the American Revolutionary War. Prior to this date, there was no formal naval force, and the Continental Congress was struggling to find ways to defend the newly independent nation’s coastline.

On August 26, 1775, the Second Continental Congress authorized the recruitment of two battalions of Marines, which eventually led to the creation of the Continental Navy. On November 10, 1775, the first 13 ships were authorized to be built, marking the beginning of the Continental Navy.

The American Revolution (1776-1783)

The Continental Navy played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, engaging in various naval battles and blockades to disrupt British supply lines and commerce. Some notable accomplishments include:

• USS Ranger: Under the command of John Paul Jones, the USS Ranger intercepted and captured several British ships, including the HMS Drake, which was one of the largest ships in the British Navy.
• USS Bonhomme Richard: In a legendary duel, the USS Bonhomme Richard, commanded by John Paul Jones, captured the HMS Serapis in the Battle of Flamborough Head.
• American Privateers: Many privateers, including privateering ships like the HMS Dart and the HMS Boston, were commissioned by the Continental Congress to attack and plunder British ships.

Post-Revolution and Expansion (1783-1820)

Following the American Revolution, the U.S. Navy went through a period of slow expansion and development. Key events during this period include:

• Jay’s Treaty (1794): The treaty with Great Britain established the northern border between the United States and British North America, effectively ending the Northwest Indian War and allowing the U.S. Navy to focus on developing its fleet.
• The Quasi-War (1798-1801): During the Quasi-War, the U.S. Navy clashed with French warships, leading to the expansion of the fleet and the development of new warship designs.
• The War of 1812: The U.S. Navy played a significant role in the War of 1812, blockading British ports and attacking British ships. Notable achievements include the burning of the HMS Guerriere by the USS Constitution, earning it the nickname "Old Ironsides."

The Age of Steam (1820-1865)

The Age of Steam saw significant advances in shipbuilding and naval technology. Key developments include:

• Steam-powered Ships: The introduction of steam power allowed for faster and more efficient naval vessels. The USS Fulton, built in 1815, was the first steam-powered warship.
• Columbiad Cannons: The development of large-caliber cannons like the Columbiad increased naval firepower and allowed ships to engage enemy vessels more effectively.
• Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815): The U.S. Navy played a small but significant role in the Napoleonic Wars, escorting American merchant vessels and providing support to French ships.

The Civil War and the Modern Era (1865-Present)

The American Civil War marked a significant turning point in the history of the U.S. Navy. Key events include:

• The CSS Virginia: The CSS Virginia, also known as the USS Merrimack, was the first ironclad warship to engage a wooden warship in battle. The U.S. Navy responded with the introduction of ironclad ships, including the USS New Ironsides.
• The Spanish-American War (1898): The U.S. Navy played a decisive role in the Spanish-American War, capturing key Spanish ships and colonies.
• The Twentieth Century: The U.S. Navy played a significant role in World War I, World War II, the Cold War, and various other military conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the United States Navy was founded on October 13, 1775, during the American Revolutionary War. From its early days as a fledgling force to its modern-day status as a global maritime power, the U.S. Navy has evolved significantly over the past two centuries. Key events and milestones have shaped its history, from the Battle of Flamborough Head to the development of ironclad ships and beyond. As the oldest and largest sea force in the world, the U.S. Navy continues to play a vital role in international affairs and national defense.

Timeline of Major Events in U.S. Naval History

Note: This is a condensed timeline and is not exhaustive.