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Chapter 03 #09

c) American Turtle

The American Turtle, employed in 1776, was a groundbreaking submarine used in military combat. Designed by David Bushnell, this pioneering vessel attempted an underwater attack on a British ship in New York Harbor. Though the attack was unsuccessful, the Turtle represented a remarkable innovation in naval warfare. Its use reflects the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the American forces in seeking technological advantages against the might of the British Navy. The American Turtle’s development highlights the experimental and innovative spirit that characterized many aspects of the Revolutionary War.