1812: TAKING ON THE ROYAL NAVY

Following the conclusion of the American Revolution in 1783, the US Navy ceased to exist as a fighting force. The navy, which had consisted of relatively few warships, was disbanded for several reasons, including an inward focus for the new United States of America, difficulty achieving a consensus for a future navy among the 13 original states, and financial difficulties.

However, it soon became apparent that some form of maritime force was necessary, particularly to combat rampant smuggling to avoid import tariffs