This book traces the development of the U.S. Navy from its beginnings in 1775 to 1965. In chronological sequence it presents the events of American naval history which most affected the nation's security and development. Written by an experienced naval officer, Lt. Cdr. David M. Cooney, it includes the Navy's battles, explorations, scientific achievements, pioneering flights, and many of the diplomatic missions which sent Navymen to the Hermit Kingdom or into the wilds of Abyssinia. Included, too, are actions of Navy and Marine Corps landing parties, significant naval legislation, and Cold War events in the Nuclear Age.