On what date was the Continental Navy established during the American Revolution?

The Continental Navy was established on October 13, 1775, during the American Revolution.

The Second Continental Congress authorized two armed vessels on that date, creating the naval force that operated on behalf of the revolutionary government. Congress later expanded the fleet, commissioned additional ships, and authorized naval officers and marines.

The Continental Navy’s missions included intercepting British supplies, protecting American commerce, carrying dispatches, and conducting raids. Its ships faced the far larger and more experienced Royal Navy, so the American force relied on a combination of conventional operations, privateering, and support from foreign allies.

The Continental Navy was dissolved after the Revolutionary War, and its remaining ships were sold. The modern United States Navy traces its official birthday to October 13, 1775, making the date a useful companion fact for America250 history.