John Paul Jones

John Paul Jones Birthplace and Home, Arbigland, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland

John Paul Jones house

Coat of Arms of John Paul Jones

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Matthias Read - Whitehaven, Cumbria, Showing Flatt Hall - Google Art Project enhanced

US Navy 050626-N-9565D-005 Capt. Michael Gordon, receives from Chairman of Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, Gordon Thomson, a copy of the local newspaper from April 1778

John Paul Jones seizing the silver plate of Lady Selkirk (1)

John Paul Jones (July 6, 1747 – July 18, 1792) was a Scottish-American naval captain who is often credited as the "Father of the American Navy". He played a pivotal role during the American Revolutionary War by engaging British naval forces, thus proving instrumental in the struggle for American independence.

Early Life

John Paul was born in Kirkbean, Scotland, and began his maritime career at the age of 13, sailing out of Whitehaven in the county of Cumberland. His early career was marked by rapid advancement and by his mid-20s, he was the master of a ship. However, after killing a crew member in self-defense during a mutiny, he fled to the American colonies and added "Jones" to his name to avoid legal repercussions.

American Revolutionary War

In 1775, with the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War, Jones offered his services to the newly formed Continental Navy and was appointed as a first lieutenant on the flagship USS Alfred. He quickly distinguished himself, capturing the British sloop HMS Drake in 1778, the first victory of its kind for the American navy.

Jones is best known for his command of the USS Bonhomme Richard during the famous battle against the British warship HMS Serapis off the coast of Flamborough Head, England, in 1779. Despite his ship being heavily outgunned and eventually sinking, Jones led his crew to victory, famously declaring, "I have not yet begun to fight!" when asked to surrender. This victory was a significant morale booster for the American cause.

Later Years and Legacy

After the war, Jones served in the Russian Navy as a rear admiral but returned to Paris, where he died in 1792. Initially buried in France, his remains were rediscovered in 1905 and brought back to the United States, where they were interred at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

John Paul Jones is remembered as a pioneering naval hero whose tactics and leadership significantly contributed to the establishment of the United States Navy. His legacy is celebrated in various memorials and his name has been bestowed on naval ships, including the nuclear-powered submarine USS John Paul Jones.

See Also

• American Revolutionary War
• Continental Navy
• Naval tactics