ABSTRACT
Farragut was a Midshipman at the age of ten and served in the USS Essex, 32, during the War of 1812. In 1815 he reported to the USS Independence, 74, where he served during the Barbary Wars. Subsequently he served in David PORTER’S ‘mosquito fleet’ in the Caribbean, again fighting pirates. In 1825, after first failing his exam for promotion, he was advanced to Lieutenant. After a series of shore and sea assignments, he commanded the USS Erie, 20, 1838-39. In 1841 he commanded the USS Delaware, 86. Another series of shore and sea assignments followed, and he was promoted to Commander in September 1841 and Captain in September 1855.
