The First Submarine Attack Who Piloted The Turtle Submersible

In the annals of naval history, the story of the first submarine attack on a warship stands as a testament to human ingenuity and courage. This audacious endeavor involved the submersible known as the 'Turtle' and a daring individual who piloted it into harm's way. Let's delve into the historical context and uncover the identity of the person who orchestrated this groundbreaking feat.

The Historical Backdrop: The American Revolutionary War

The late 18th century witnessed the birth of a new nation as the American colonies waged a fierce struggle for independence from British rule. The American Revolutionary War, a conflict that spanned from 1775 to 1783, was a crucible of innovation and tactical adaptation. Both sides sought to gain an edge in naval warfare, leading to the exploration of unconventional technologies. The 'Turtle' submersible emerged as one such innovation, a symbol of American ingenuity in the face of British naval dominance.

The Genesis of the 'Turtle' Submersible

Amidst the fervor of the revolution, David Bushnell, an American inventor, conceived the idea of a one-man submersible capable of attaching explosives to enemy ships. This vision materialized in the form of the 'Turtle,' a vessel ingeniously designed to operate underwater and deliver a decisive blow to the British fleet. The 'Turtle' was a marvel of its time, a wooden, egg-shaped vessel propelled by hand-cranked propellers and equipped with a drill to bore into the hulls of enemy ships. Its operator would navigate stealthily beneath the waves, attach a timed explosive, and escape before the device detonated. The submersible's design was revolutionary, incorporating ballast tanks for buoyancy control, a compass for navigation, and even a bioluminescent display for underwater visibility. The 'Turtle' represented a significant leap forward in naval technology, a harbinger of the submarines that would later play a pivotal role in maritime warfare.

The Daring Mission: Targeting the HMS Eagle

The 'Turtle's moment of truth arrived on the night of September 6, 1776, when it was deployed to attack the HMS Eagle, a British warship anchored in New York Harbor. The mission was fraught with peril, requiring the operator to navigate the treacherous currents, maintain stealth, and successfully attach the explosive device. The individual entrusted with this daunting task was none other than Ezra Lee, a volunteer from the Continental Army known for his courage and mechanical aptitude. Lee's mission was a daring gambit, a bold attempt to strike a blow against the British naval forces and disrupt their operations in the harbor. The success of the mission hinged on Lee's skill, determination, and the reliability of the 'Turtle' submersible.

The Man Behind the Mission: Ezra Lee

Ezra Lee, the individual at the helm of the 'Turtle' during its historic mission, was a man of remarkable courage and resourcefulness. Born in Lyme, Connecticut, Lee enlisted in the Continental Army and quickly distinguished himself as a skilled soldier. His mechanical aptitude and unwavering commitment to the cause of American independence made him the ideal candidate to pilot the 'Turtle' in its daring mission against the HMS Eagle. Lee's training involved mastering the complex controls of the submersible, navigating underwater, and attaching the explosive device to the enemy ship. He faced numerous challenges, including the physical exertion required to operate the 'Turtle' and the psychological pressure of undertaking such a perilous mission. Despite these obstacles, Lee remained steadfast in his resolve, driven by a deep-seated desire to strike a blow for American freedom.

The Submarine Attack: A Detailed Account

On the fateful night of September 6, 1776, Ezra Lee embarked on his mission aboard the 'Turtle,' navigating the submersible through the dark waters of New York Harbor. His target was the HMS Eagle, a formidable British warship that represented a symbol of British naval power. As Lee approached the Eagle, he encountered a series of challenges. The currents were stronger than anticipated, making it difficult to maneuver the 'Turtle' with precision. The drill, designed to bore into the ship's hull, struggled to penetrate the copper sheathing that protected the Eagle's hull. Despite these setbacks, Lee persevered, attempting multiple times to attach the explosive device. After several hours of relentless effort, Lee was forced to abandon the mission due to exhaustion and the risk of detection. Although the attack did not result in the destruction of the Eagle, it stands as a testament to Lee's courage and the ingenuity of the 'Turtle' submersible.

The Aftermath and Legacy of the 'Turtle' Mission

While the 'Turtle's mission against the HMS Eagle did not achieve its primary objective, it had a profound impact on the course of naval history. The attack demonstrated the potential of submarine warfare and inspired future generations of inventors and naval strategists. The 'Turtle' became a symbol of American ingenuity and the determination to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. Ezra Lee, the man who piloted the 'Turtle,' became a celebrated figure in American history, his name forever linked to the pioneering submarine attack. The legacy of the 'Turtle' extends beyond its historical significance, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of innovation and the courage of individuals who dare to challenge conventional wisdom. The failed mission provided valuable lessons that shaped the development of future submarines and underwater warfare tactics.

Exploring the Other Options

While Ezra Lee is the correct answer, let's briefly examine the other options provided to understand why they are not the individuals who directed the first submarine attack on a warship using the submersible 'Turtle':

• (B) Esek Hopkins: Esek Hopkins was the first commander-in-chief of the Continental Navy during the American Revolutionary War. While he played a crucial role in establishing the American naval forces, he was not directly involved in the 'Turtle' mission.
• (C) Stephen Decatur: Stephen Decatur was a renowned American naval officer who distinguished himself in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, particularly in the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812. However, his career came after the Revolutionary War and the 'Turtle' incident.
• (D) John Paul Jones: John Paul Jones was a famous American naval hero of the Revolutionary War, known for his daring raids and victories against British ships. While he was a contemporary of Ezra Lee, he was not involved in the 'Turtle' submarine mission.

Conclusion: Recognizing Ezra Lee's Courage and Innovation

In conclusion, Ezra Lee stands as the individual who directed the first submarine attack on a warship using the submersible 'Turtle.' His courageous attempt to strike a blow against the British navy, though ultimately unsuccessful in its immediate objective, marked a pivotal moment in naval history. The 'Turtle' mission demonstrated the potential of submarine warfare and inspired future innovations in underwater technology. Ezra Lee's name deserves to be remembered alongside the pioneers of naval warfare, as a testament to human ingenuity and the unwavering pursuit of freedom.

This historical event highlights the importance of technological innovation in warfare and the courage of individuals who are willing to push the boundaries of what is possible. Ezra Lee's story serves as an inspiration, reminding us that even the most audacious ideas can have a profound impact on the course of history.