What year was the Department of the Navy established?

The Department of the Navy was established in 1798. This was a pivotal moment in U.S. history, as it came in the wake of rising tensions with France, leading to an unofficial naval conflict known as the Quasi-War. The creation of the Department allowed for a more organized approach to naval warfare and the expansion of naval capabilities, ultimately shaping the future of the United States Navy.

Prior to this, naval operations were conducted by the Continental Congress and later by the War Department, but the establishment of the Department of the Navy marked a significant step towards a dedicated military service focused on naval affairs. This department has since evolved to oversee the Navy and the Marine Corps, emphasizing its importance in U.S. defense and maritime strategy.