The USS Alliance Incident: Did Captain Landis Attack the USS Bonhomme Richard?
Introduction
The American Revolution in 1779 was a tumultuous time, marked by several intense naval battles between American and British forces. One particular incident, involving the USS Alliance and the USS Bonhomme Richard, has been the subject of much debate. It is commonly claimed that Captain Landis of the Alliance mistakenly fired upon the Bonhomme Richard during the historic battle against HMS Serapis. This article delves into the event, examining the historical context, the personalities involved, and the broader implications of this fateful encounter.
The Context of the American Revolutionary War
During the American Revolutionary War, the seas were a battleground where armed American frigates and cruisers like the Bonhomme Richard and Alliance faced off against their British counterparts. The Continental Navy, led by renowned figures such as John Paul Jones, played a crucial role in supporting American military efforts. The USS Allainace, a significant component of the Continental Navy, was commanded by Pierre Landais, a French naval officer known for his disagreements with Jones.
The Battle of Flamborough Head
The Battle of Flamborough Head on September 23, 1779, was one of the most famous naval engagements of the American Revolutionary War. The British ship HMS Serapis and the American vessel USS Bonhomme Richard engaged in fierce combat. John Paul Jones, the commanding officer of the Bonhomme Richard, was victorious in a dogged battle despite his ship's severe damage. The Battle of Flamborough became a celebrated moment in American naval history, symbolizing determination and resourcefulness.
The Misunderstood Encounter
Initially, it was often believed that Captain Landis of the USS Alliance deliberately attacked the USS Bonhomme Richard. However, a closer examination of historical records reveals that this incident may not have been as malicious as initially thought. Upon sighting the Bonhomme Richard and HMS Serapis entangled in combat, Landis ordered his ship to assist by firing broadsides. While some of these cannonballs did hit the Bonhomme Richard, it is unlikely that Landis intended any harm to his ally.
Strategic Military Decisions
The maritime tactics of the era were characterized by the need to strike an enemy ship's vulnerable parts, typically the stern. This was because the stern sections of ships were generally weaker and less protected. In the case of the Battle of Flamborough, Captain Landis positioned the Alliance to engage the Serapis from an angle that would allow such strategic targeting. The broadsides fired by the Alliance could easily have come from the stern of the Bonhomme Richard, leading to confusion among those on board the Bonhomme Richard.
Aftermath and Consequences
Following the battle, tensions between John Paul Jones and Landais intensified. The flagship Bonhomme Richard, having suffered severe damage, eventually sunk in flames. Landais was eventually relieved of command by John Barry of the Continental Navy. This incident led to more formal relationships and clearer communication between commanding officers, ensuring that such misunderstandings would be minimized in future engagements.
Conclusion
The incident involving the USS Alliance and the USS Bonhomme Richard during the Battle of Flamborough Head was a complex and misunderstood episode in American naval history. It showcases the tension and confusion that can arise in war, even among allies. Understanding these nuances provides insights into the strategies and dynamics of early American naval engagements.