But almost simultaneously troubles began in the Mediterranean when Algiers seized two American merchant ships and held their crews for ransom. See also: History of the United States NavyĪfter the Revolutionary War, a heavily indebted United States disbanded the Continental Navy, and in August 1785, lacking funds for ship repairs, sold its last remaining warship, the Alliance. These ships were built during the formative years of the United States Navy, on the recommendation of designer Joshua Humphreys for a fleet of frigates powerful enough to engage any frigates of the French or British navies, yet fast enough to evade any ship of the line. The United States Congress authorized the original six frigates of the United States Navy with the Naval Act of 1794 on March 27, 1794, at a total cost of $688,888.82 (equivalent to $13,588,000 in 2022). General characteristics ( Congress and Constellation)ġ52.8 ft (46.6 m) between perpendiculars General characteristics ( Constitution, President, United States)Ĥ50 officers and enlisted, including 55 Marines and 30 boys

USS Constitution, the last of the original six frigates of the United States Navy still in commission

Us navy after war of 1812