soldiers of the world civil war 1775-1783 captain continental navy

Guarding American commerce and raiding British commerce and supply were the principal duties of Continental Navy.

Some among these vessels would fight in the Battle of Valcour Island. On Apthe squadron, with the addition of the USS Fly unsuccessfully encountered the 20-gun HMS Glasgow in the first major sea battle of the Continental Navy.īy this time, Congress had authorized the addition of 13 frigates to the fleet, which were contructed as warships, rather than refitted merchantmen. With this small fleet, complemented by the USS Providence, and USS Wasp, Hopkins led the first major Naval action of the Continental Navy, in early March 1776, against Nassau, Bahamas, where stores of much-needed gunpowder were seized for the use of the Continental Army. On December 22, 1775, Esek Hopkins was appointed the naval commander-in-chief, and officers of the navy were commissioned. On December 3, the USS Alfred, USS Andrew USS Doria, USS Cabot, and USS Columbus. Although the Navy was to play only a minor role in the war, the success of American privateers in interrupting British trade was an important factor aiding the patriot cause. By the end of October, Congress authorized the purchase and outfitting of 4 armed vessels. George Washington had already informed Congress that he had assumed command of several ships for this purpose, and individual governments of various colonies had outfitted their own warships.

The original intent was to intercept the supply of arms and provisions to British soldiers, who had placed Boston under martial law. The Continental Navy was authorized by the Continental Congress on October 13, 1775.

Soldiers of the world civil war 1775-1783 captain continental navy