October 21, 1797

The USS Constitution, also known as 'Old Ironsides', was launched in Boston Harbor. It became famous for its role in the War of 1812 against Great Britain.

Boston, United States | United States Navy

Watercolor painting based depiction of The USS Constitution, also known as 'Old Ironsides', was launched in Boston Harbor. It became famous for its role in the War of 1812 against Great Britain. (1797)

Launch of USS Constitution - October 21, 1797

On October 21, 1797, the USS Constitution, affectionately known as “Old Ironsides,” was launched in Boston Harbor, marking a significant milestone in United States naval history. Built at Edmund Hartt’s shipyard in the North End of Boston, the Constitution was among the six original frigates authorized by the Naval Act of 1794 to form the United States Navy.

Construction and Design

The USS Constitution was designed by naval architect Joshua Humphreys as a 44-gun frigate, although she often carried more. Her design aimed to give the United States a competitive edge over contemporary naval forces with a stronger and faster ship. The construction utilized robust materials, including live oak wood harvested from Georgia, making her exceptionally durable and resilient.

Historical Context

The launch of USS Constitution came at a time when the young American republic was seeking to protect its merchant vessels from threats posed by Barbary pirates and to assert its sovereignty on the high seas amidst larger global naval powers. This era was marked by increasing tensions with European powers, notably Great Britain and France, which would soon lead to conflicts accentuating the need for a strong naval defense.

Role in the War of 1812

USS Constitution gained her legendary status during the War of 1812 against Great Britain. The ship earned the nickname “Old Ironsides” during a famous battle with the HMS Guerriere on August 19, 1812, when British cannonballs were seen bouncing off her sturdy hull. The Constitution’s victories provided a significant morale boost to the young nation and symbolized resilience and strength.

Legacy

Today, USS Constitution remains one of the most famous ships in American history. She is preserved as a museum ship in Boston, where she still commands respect and admiration. The vessel stands as a testament to early American naval engineering and the enduring spirit of the United States Navy.

The anniversary of her launch continues to be celebrated as a reminder of her storied past and her contributions to American maritime heritage.

Source: www.navy.mil

Explore related moments in history

Events connected by shared themes, locations, or historical context.

The Capture of the USS Pueblo: January 23, 1968

1968 · Near Wonsan, North Korea

The USS Pueblo, an American Navy intelligence vessel, was captured by North Korean forces. The event heightened tensions during the Cold War and led to the crew's year-long detention.

The Hainan Island Incident: April 11, 2001

2001 · Hainan, China

The detained crew of a United States EP-3E Aries II surveillance aircraft, which had collided with a Chinese fighter jet and made an emergency landing on Hainan Island, China, was released after 11 days of diplomatic negotiations.

The Battle of the Coral Sea

1942 · Coral Sea, Pacific Ocean

The Battle of the Coral Sea, a major naval battle in the Pacific Theater of World War II, began between the Imperial Japanese Navy and Allied naval and air forces from the United States and Australia.