Happy 249th Birthday, U.S. Navy

The U.S. Navy was established on October 13, 1775, when the Continental Congress authorized America's first naval force, predating the Declaration of Independence by 101 days. Initially created to defend against approaching British naval forces during the American Revolution, the Continental Navy quickly expanded with purchased ships and appointed leadership including Commander in Chief Esek Hopkins and lieutenants like John Paul Jones. Though temporarily disbanded after the Revolution, the Navy was later reestablished through the Naval Act of 1794 and has evolved from its humble beginnings into today's global maritime force while maintaining its core mission of safeguarding America's interests across the seas.