America has seen more than its fair share of momentous events...
... Historic moments like the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which became the first step towards the forming of the United States of America.
... Decisive wars and battles, such as the Battle of Gettysburg, which determined the values that the nation was to be built upon.
Through it all, the American Navy has not only been a witness, but an active and key participant to the creation and progress of the country.
The Navy has fought 12 major wars throughout the relatively young existence of America, with countless missions, standoffs, and conflicts in between.
Throughout the course of those wars, it has grown and strengthened its capabilities - from having zero ships and zero expertise to becoming one of the largest fleets in the world.
And to think that it almost wasn't created.
The US Navy's first hundred years were its most challenging - facing skeptics, a lack of funds, and much stronger opponents.
But those formative years are also the foundation on which today's mighty Navy stands.
Whether you're a history buff or military enthusiast, this chronicle of the Navy's early history is a must-read.
From monumental battles and memorable speeches to groundbreaking developments and personal accounts, you'll find it all here.
In The Rise of the American Navy, you will discover:How George Washington finally got the Continental Navy created... after years of indecision in CongressOne of the most fascinating figures of the Revolutionary War - now remembered as the father of the American Navy (even though he's not actually American)The resourceful strategy that helped make the newly formed navy a formidable opponent, despite being greatly outmatched by the BritishThe two-hour naval battle that led to American victory against Britain - and it didn't even involve any Americans!How pirates resurrected the US Navy and started its gradual ascent to powerFirst-hand accounts from those on the front lines that provide an up-close and personal view of the hardships of warHow the Civil War contributed to a new era in naval warfare that made every other navy in the world obsoleteAnd much more...
The US Navy's history is inextricably linked to the history of America as a nation. After all, its creation was tied to the colonies' fight for independence.
From its shaky beginnings to its current dominance, the Navy has gone through several ups and downs that have shaped it into what it is today.
The Navy has come a long way since the days of the Revolutionary War.
Through defeats, downsizing, and dissolution, it has managed to survive and come back stronger than ever to become the greatest naval power in the world.