David
Farragut was
born in Knoxville, Tennessee on 5th July, 1801. As a child he was
adopted
by Commodore David Porter of the US
Navy. Farragut entered the navy as a Midshipman in 1810 and during
the 1812 War served under Porter on the frigate
Essex. Porter captured several British whaling vessels
and at the age of twelve Farragut was given command of one of these
prize ships.
Farragut was sent to school for a while but by 1821 was an officer
in the navy. He served in the West Indies under Porter and in 1824
was given his first independent command. He also saw action during
the Mexican War (1846-48).
During the secession crisis Farragut moved his wife and son from Norfolk,
Virginia, and moved to the North. On the outbreak of the American
Civil War Farragut was given command of the West Blockading Squadron.
He led the New Orleans expedition
in December, 1861. Farragut and his foster brother, David
Porter, captured the forts guarding the port in April, 1862 and
troops led by General Benjamin F. Butler
occupied the city soon afterwards.
Promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral in July,
1862, Farragut he successfully opened up the Mississippi to Vicksburg.
He was also involved in the campaign against Port Hudson and the assault
on Mobile Bay (August to December, 1864).
Farragut became America's first Vice Admiral on 23rd December, 1864.
He was made a full admiral in 1866 and given command of the European
Squadron. David Farragut died in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on 14th
August, 1870.
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