Celebrating 250 years: The U.S. Navy, founded on October 13, 1775

WASHINGTON - The United States Navy is celebrating 250 years of service, sacrifice, and tradition, commemorating its founding on October 13, 1775.

U.S. Navy history

Timeline:

The American Revolution — 1775–1783

At the onset of the conflict, the importance of naval power was recognized. By 1776, the 13 colonies had 27 warships, greatly outnumbered by the Royal British Navy, which had about 270 warships. During the war, most American naval actions saw success disrupting British supply lines.

Aided by French allies at the Battle of the Virginia Capes in September 1781, the Navy was able to prevent the Royal Navy from reinforcing or evacuating the besieged British forces at Yorktown, Virginia, which was instrumental in securing independence for the Colonies.

The War of 1812

On 18 Jun