Who founded the U.S navy?

Who Founded the U.S. Navy?

The United States Navy has a rich and storied history that dates back to the early days of the American Revolution. The foundation of the U.S. Navy is a topic of great interest and debate among historians and naval enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will explore the origins of the U.S. Navy and answer the question of who founded it.

Early Beginnings

The concept of a naval force dates back to the early colonial era, when the English established a small fleet of ships to protect their colonial interests in North America. The first naval engagement of the American Revolution took place on April 19, 1775, when the British ship HMS Somerset and the colonial ship Hancock engaged in a brief skirmish off the coast of Massachusetts. This marked the beginning of the Continental Navy, which was formed on October 13, 1775, with a fleet of six ships and a total of 16 vessels.

The First Fleet

The first fleet of the Continental Navy was assembled in Philadelphia and consisted of the following ships:

John Adams and the Continental Navy

John Adams, one of the founding fathers of the United States, played a significant role in the formation of the Continental Navy. As a member of the Continental Congress, Adams was instrumental in securing funding and support for the Navy. He believed that a strong naval force was essential for the success of the American Revolution and the defense of the young nation.

Benjamin Franklin and the French Alliance

Another key figure in the formation of the U.S. Navy was Benjamin Franklin. Franklin was a skilled diplomat who played a crucial role in securing the support of France, which became a vital ally of the United States during the Revolution. Franklin’s diplomatic efforts led to the signing of the Treaty of Alliance in 1778, which formalized the French-American alliance and provided significant financial and military support to the Continental Navy.

The Naval Act of 1794

The Naval Act of 1794 marked a significant turning point in the history of the U.S. Navy. This act established the United States Navy as a permanent institution, with a fleet of six frigates and a total of 100 vessels. The act also created the Office of the Secretary of the Navy, which was responsible for overseeing the administration of the Navy.

George Washington and the U.S. Navy

George Washington, the first President of the United States, played a significant role in the development of the U.S. Navy. Washington believed that a strong naval force was essential for the defense of the United States and the protection of American interests. He supported the creation of the U.S. Navy and provided significant funding for its development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the U.S. Navy was founded by a combination of individuals and events, including the Continental Congress, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington. The Naval Act of 1794 marked a significant turning point in the history of the U.S. Navy, establishing it as a permanent institution with a fleet of six frigates and a total of 100 vessels. The U.S. Navy has since become one of the most powerful and respected naval forces in the world, with a rich history and a proud tradition of service and sacrifice.

References

• "A Naval History of the American Revolution" by Edward J. Lowell
• "The United States Navy: A History" by Robert H. Patton
• "The Continental Navy" by Charles Oscar Paullin
• "The Naval Act of 1794" by the Naval Historical Center

Note: The above article is a general overview of the founding of the U.S. Navy and is not intended to be a comprehensive or exhaustive treatment of the subject.