WILLIAM BAINBRIDGE
Commodore in the United States Navy.
From the portrait by J.W. Jarvis
The War of 1812 also for the first time gave the United States an unquestioned place in the sisterhood of modern nations. Though the population in 1815 was only about eight and a half millions, the success of the navy inspired a wholesome respect for Yankee ships and Yankee sailors. In place of the captured ships a new merchant marine was quickly provided, which developed into the famous clipper ships, the triumph of American skill and the glory of the seas. From this time dates the friendship of several European nations, particularly of Russia, whose Czar Alexander was a friend and correspondent of Thomas Jefferson.
THE "CHESAPEAKE" LEAVING THE HARBOR
Captain Lawrence, commanding the "Chesapeake," was mortally wounded, and his vessel was captured by the "Shannon" off Boston Roads. It was in this engagement that he uttered his famous words, "Don't give up the ship." From a painting by Carlton T. Chapman
From "Naval Actions of the War of 1812," by James Barnes.
Copyright, 1896, by Harper & Brothers
Our former enemy, Great Britain, was converted into a respectful friend who saw the advantages of friendship. The proof is that eight years later George Canning asked the United States to join in a declaration with Great Britain in favor of the Latin-American States; and the idea developed into our independent Monroe Doctrine. The American people were entitled to forget their weakness and defeats; for the net result of the War of 1812 was to inspire the greatest naval and colonial power in the world with a respect for American character and an acceptance of the United States as a great National power.
THE "CONSTITUTION" TAKING THE "CYANE"
The "Cyane" was one of the crack sloops of war in the English service. The "Constitution" after a running fight captured both this ship and the "Levant." From a painting by Carlton T. Chapman
From "Naval Actions of the War of 1812," by James Barnes.
Copyright, 1896, by Harper & Brothers
SUPPLEMENTARY READING
HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA