Constitution, USS

by Gene Andes

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About the Vessel

USS Constitution is a heavy frigate of the United States Navy and the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat.

She was launched in 1797, the third of six original frigates authorized for construction by the Naval Act of 1794. Her first duties were to provide protection for American merchant shipping during the Quasi-War with France and to defeat the Barbary pirates in the First Barbary War. She is most noted for her actions during the War of 1812, when defeated five British warships: HMS Guerriere, Java, Pictou, Cyane, and Levant. The battle with Guerriere earned her the nickname “Old Ironsides” and public adoration that has repeatedly saved her from scrapping.

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