Why did president john adams increase the size of the american navy
President John Adams increased the size of the American navy for several reasons:
1. National defense: Adams believed in maintaining a strong military to protect the young and vulnerable United States from foreign threats. Increasing the navy's size was seen as a crucial step in defending American interests, particularly against the powerful British and French navies.
2. Naval warfare against Barbary powers: The United States was engaged in conflicts with the Barbary states of North Africa (Algeria, Morocco, Tripoli, and Tunis) during Adams' presidency. These states often engaged in piracy and demanded tribute from American ships. Expanding the navy was essential to confront and deter these Barbary powers, along with securing American trade interests in the Mediterranean.
3. Protection of American merchant ships: The U.S. navy was responsible for protecting American merchant vessels and ensuring freedom of navigation. By increasing the navy's size, Adams aimed to provide adequate protection to American ships from pirate attacks, impressment by foreign powers, or interference by hostile nations.
4. Strengthening national sovereignty: Adams sought to establish and assert American sovereignty on the high seas. A strong navy was viewed as a symbol of national pride, independence, and the ability to project American power globally.
5. Securing maritime trade: Adams recognized the importance of maritime trade for the economic prosperity of the United States. A larger navy would help protect American trade routes, deter potential aggressors, and facilitate safe commerce, contributing to the country's economic growth.
Overall, President John Adams increased the size of the American navy to safeguard national security, protect trade interests, assert American sovereignty, and defend against piracy and aggression from foreign powers.