WHAT
By 1785 the financially strained United States had sold the last of the Continental Navy. But the young nation relied on overseas trade, and its merchant ships were vulnerable to pirates—especially Barbary corsairs from Algiers who seized vessels, cargo and crews. Protecting commerce sparked debate over creating a new navy.
WHO
A divided Third Congress in Philadelphia argued the issue. Opponents feared a navy would expand federal power and deepen debt. Supporters insisted maritime protection was vital to trade and national honor. After close votes, the Naval Act passed the House 50–39 and was signed by President George Washington.
WHAT HAPPENED and WHAT FOLLOWED
The act authorized nearly $689,000 to build six frigates and hire officers, sailors and marines. Naval architect Joshua Humphreys designed fast, heavily built ships intended to out-sail and out-fight typical European frigates.
WHAT MOST DON’T KNOW
A compromise required shipbuilding to stop if the United States reached peace with Algiers, a Barbary pirate base. No agreement came, so construction continued.
ONE SIMPLE TAKEAWAY
The decision proved wise. America’s new navy soon fought France over trading rights and later Britain in the War of 1812, helping establish the United States as a credible maritime power.
FLAG THIS FACT
Like the flags flown aboard all U.S. naval ships, the flag you fly out-of-doors should withstand wind, sun and weather. For tough conditions, fly extra-reinforced flags from American Flags Express.
