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by Toll, Ian
In 1794, Congress passed a law calling for the building and arming of six frigates. Thus the United States Navy (as opposed to the Continental Navy) was born. As the threat (Algerian pirates) faded the shipbuilding slowed even stopped. However other threats to the new nation appeared; the six frigates and other vessels would be finished and put into action against the French, the Tripolitan Pirates and a rematch with the British called the War of 1812. Physically larger and more heavily armed than other nations? frigates, these six would serve well during the war. The last reminder of those early vessels is the USS Constitution is preserved in Charlestown, MA.
- reviewed by John, Main Library, PLCMC