John Paul Jones

Overview

This fresh look at America’s first sea warrior avoids the hero worship of past biographies and provides a more complete understanding of his accomplishments. Writing from the perspective of a naval officer with more than thirty years of experience and a seaman with a lifetime of sailing know-how, Callo examines Jones’ extraordinary career by going beyond his legendary naval achievements to establish him as a key player in the American Revolution.

Analysis

Analyzing his relationships with important civilian leaders of the Revolution, such as Benjamin Franklin, the author demonstrates how Jones’ handling of those often difficult dealings contributed to the nation’s concept of civilian control of the military.

Significance

In this acclaimed biography, Jones is shown to be not only a highly-skilled and relentless commander, but the first serving American naval officer to emphasize the role the Navy could play in the rise of the United States as a global power.