The Real, Shameful Story Behind 'Don't Give Up the Ship'-- Part 8: A Scapegoat

No American heroes arose from the engagement at first.  The first and second lieutenants of the Chesapeake had been wounded and were out of action.  The 4th lieutenant had been killed.

The 3rd lieutenant, William Cox, had not been able to get back up on deck after taking Lawrence below and he was made the scapegoat by the disbelieving American public.  It was his fault that the ship was lost.  he was tried by military court and found guilty of leaving his place of duty and dismissed from the U.S. Navy in disgrace.

His family and descendants tried for years to clear his name.  Finally, in 1952, President Truman pardoned him and restored him to his former rank.

James Lawrence was the clear culprit in the Chesapeake's loss.  But the American public would not allow any blame to be given to him.  If they couldn't have a victory, at least they would have a hero.

And, Captain Lawrence was that man.

Hero or Culprit?  --Brock-Perry