Pulitzer Prize Biography Winner

John Paul Jones

by Samuel Eliot Morison

Summary

Samuel Eliot Morison narrates the seafaring life of John Paul Jones, the Scottish born captain who became a hero of the American Revolution at sea. The biography follows his daring raids on British waters and his famous victory aboard the Bonhomme Richard, drawing on Morison's own naval expertise. It matters as a vivid and authoritative account of the man often called the father of the American Navy.

Historical Context & Significance

Morison was a Harvard historian and rear admiral whose sailing experience informed his account of naval combat.