The First Submarine Attack in History: September 11, 1776

On September 11, 1776, during the American Revolutionary War, the first recorded submarine attack in history took place. This innovative military endeavor involved the American submarine known as the Turtle, designed by American inventor David Bushnell. The attack targeted the British warship HMS Eagle, which was anchored in New York Harbor.

Background

The American Revolutionary War, which began in 1775, was a conflict between the thirteen American colonies and Great Britain. The colonies sought independence from British rule, and the war saw numerous battles and military innovations. One such innovation was the Turtle, a one-man submarine intended to break the British naval blockade.

Design of the Turtle

• Inventor: David Bushnell, a Yale graduate, designed the Turtle in 1775.
• Structure: The submarine was egg-shaped, made of wood, and reinforced with iron bands. It measured about 7.5 feet long and 6 feet tall.
• Operation: The Turtle was manually operated by a single person using hand-cranked propellers. It was equipped with a drill to attach explosive charges to enemy ships.

The Attack

The mission to attack HMS Eagle was undertaken by Sergeant Ezra Lee, a volunteer from the Continental Army. On the night of September 6, 1776, Lee piloted the Turtle toward the British flagship.

The Attempt

• Navigation Challenges: Lee faced difficulties navigating the strong currents of New York Harbor.
• Technical Difficulties: Upon reaching the Eagle, Lee attempted to attach the explosive charge to the ship’s hull. However, the drill failed to penetrate the copper sheathing of the ship.
• Abandonment: After several attempts and fearing detection, Lee abandoned the mission and returned to safety.

Aftermath and Significance

Although the attack was unsuccessful in damaging the HMS Eagle, it marked a significant moment in naval warfare history. The Turtle demonstrated the potential of submarines as a tool for naval combat, influencing future developments in submarine technology.

Broader Impact

• Innovation: The Turtle’s design and concept were ahead of its time, laying the groundwork for future submarine advancements.
• Military Strategy: The attempt highlighted the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the American forces during the Revolutionary War.

Despite its failure, the Turtle remains a symbol of early American innovation and determination in the face of overwhelming odds. The event is a testament to the evolving nature of warfare and the continuous quest for technological advancement in military strategy.