U.S. Navy in War of 1812-- Part 5: Lack of Interest in the U.S. Navy by the Government

In the year before the war, the government and Navy Department did little to prepare for it.  In a country where  many questioned the need or even dreaded  the existence of a standing military, the Navy Department was even afraid it would be done away with by the government.

Only months before the war, Congress began a slow, meager build up in preparation for it.

However, a few weeks after declaration, Congress approved $829,000  for purchasing, repairing and equipping captured enemy vessels.  But so much disinterest or outright opposition existed that Congress did not appropriate money to build ships until January 1813.  They then approved $2,500,000 for four ships of the line and six frigates.  This was 25% more than the entire Navy 1811 budget.

These warships would never see combat against the British.  Too late.

--Brock-Perry