When was the United States Navy Established?
The United States Navy has a rich history that dates back to the early days of the American colonies. The Navy was established on October 13, 1775, when the Continental Congress authorized the construction of two sailing ships, the USS Boston and the USS Warren, to fight against the British Navy during the American Revolutionary War. However, the modern United States Navy as we know it today was established on April 30, 1798, when Congress passed the Naval Act.
Early Years of the United States Navy
Before the establishment of the Navy, the American colonies relied on privateers and merchant ships to defend themselves against British naval attacks. Privateers were privately owned ships that were authorized by the colonies to attack and capture British ships, while merchant ships were commercial vessels that carried goods and supplies.
The Continental Congress recognized the need for a formal naval force to counter the British Navy’s dominance on the high seas. In October 1775, they authorized the construction of two ships, the USS Boston and the USS Warren, which were designed to fight against the British Navy. However, the construction of these ships was slow, and it wasn’t until the summer of 1776 that the first American ships, the USS Alfred and the USS Columbus, set sail.
The Continental Navy
The Continental Navy was the first official naval force of the United States. It was established on October 13, 1775, and was responsible for defending American ships and ports against British naval attacks. The Continental Navy was composed of about 30 ships, including frigates, sloops, and schooners.
The Continental Navy had some notable successes, including the capture of the British ship HMS Serapis in 1779 and the sinking of the British ship HMS Deane in 1780. However, the Continental Navy was eventually disbanded in 1785, after the American Revolutionary War ended.
The United States Navy is Established
The modern United States Navy was established on April 30, 1798, when Congress passed the Naval Act. This act authorized the construction of six frigates, which were designed to defend American ships and ports against French and British naval attacks.
The six frigates were:
- USS United States: The lead ship of the frigate fleet, designed by Joshua Humphreys.
- USS Constitution: Nicknamed "Old Ironsides," this ship is still in commission today and is one of the oldest commissioned warships in the world.
- USS Chesapeake: Designed by Joshua Humphreys, this ship was involved in a famous battle with the HMS Shannon in 1813.
- USS Congress: Designed by Joshua Humphreys, this ship was involved in a famous battle with the HMS Guerriere in 1812.
- USS Constellation: Designed by Joshua Humphreys, this ship is still in commission today and is one of the oldest commissioned warships in the world.
- USS Constitution: Designed by Joshua Humphreys, this ship is still in commission today and is one of the oldest commissioned warships in the world.
Notable Events in the Early Years of the United States Navy
- Quasi-War with France: From 1798 to 1801, the United States Navy clashed with the French Navy in a series of battles, including the USS Constellation vs. the French ship L’Insurgente.
- War of 1812: The United States Navy played a significant role in the War of 1812, including the famous battle between the USS Constitution and the HMS Guerriere.
- Mexican-American War: The United States Navy played a significant role in the Mexican-American War, including the capture of the Mexican port city of Veracruz.
Table: Notable Ships of the Early United States Navy
| Ship | Commissioned | Fate |
|---|---|---|
| USS United States | 1797 | Sold in 1848 |
| USS Constitution | 1797 | Still in commission today |
| USS Chesapeake | 1799 | Captured by the British in 1813 |
| USS Congress | 1799 | Captured by the British in 1815 |
| USS Constellation | 1799 | Still in commission today |
| USS Philadelphia | 1799 | Captured by the British in 1803 |
Conclusion
The United States Navy has a rich history that dates back to the early days of the American colonies. From the establishment of the Continental Navy to the modern United States Navy, the Navy has played a significant role in American history. The Navy has been involved in numerous wars and conflicts, including the American Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Mexican-American War. Today, the United States Navy is one of the most powerful naval forces in the world, with a fleet of over 500 ships and submarines.
