GENERAL VIEW OF THE RISE, PROGRESS, AND BRILLIANT ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE AMERICAN NAVY, DOWN TO THE PRESENT TIME. ILLUSTRATED BY BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, OFFICIAL REPORTS, TO WHICH IS AFFIXED A SUCCINCT ACCOUNT OF THE ORIGIN AND PROGRESS OF THE GREEK REVOLUTION. TERMINATING WITH THE GLORIOUS VICTORY OF NAVARINO, October 20, 1827. BROOKLYN, N. Y. MDCCCXXVIII. PREFACE. The strong interest which is evinced by individuals, to learn the early history of their own country, and the enthusiasm with which they peruse the bold achievements of their early defenders, renders the work before us a fair candidate for public favour. The astonishing advancement of our favoured country in population, wealth, arts, and arms, the space which she fills in the map of the world, and the moral influence which she will unavoidably exert among the nations, are sufficient inducements to the study of her history, and the firm attachment of her children. How far the compiler of this history has conduced to the attainment of these objects, and with what judgment the work is executed, is left with his readers to determine. In relating the exploits of the American Navy on the Lakes, he has taken the liberty to introduce so much of the military operations in the immediate vicinity, as to elucidate the corresponding transactions of the former. How far this will meet the public approbation is not within his province to determine; but he is persuaded, that those who perceive the intimate relation which they bear to each other, will by no means disapprove the plan. The deep interest which the sufferings and heroism of the Greeks have excited both in Europe and America, is a sufficient pledge of the favourable reception which may be expected for the historical sketch which is appended. As the conflict still rages, no sufficient data can be afforded for a full and correct history; and the compiler has merely to say that he has used his endeavors to select with care, from the most apparently correct sources. |