John Paul Jones

Date of Birth: July 6, 1747

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: July 18, 1792

Biography

John Paul Jones was a distinguished naval commander during the American Revolutionary War, known for his audacious tactics and fierce dedication to the American cause. Born in Scotland, Jones began his maritime career at a young age, eventually joining the Continental Navy. His most famous victory came aboard the Bonhomme Richard, where he famously declared, “I have not yet begun to fight!” despite facing overwhelming odds. Jones’s daring exploits earned him a legendary status as the “Father of the American Navy.” Jones continued his naval career in Europe after the war, serving in the Russian Navy under Catherine the Great. His contributions to naval warfare and his unyielding spirit left an indelible mark on American naval history. He spent his later years in Paris, where he died in 1792. Despite his relatively short life, Jones’s legacy endures as a symbol of resilience and bravery.

5 Interesting Facts about John Paul Jones

1. Jones’s original name was John Paul; he added “Jones” later to evade potential legal issues.

2. He was the first naval officer to receive the Congressional Gold Medal.

3. Jones was buried in a Paris cemetery, but his remains were later moved to the United States and interred at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis.

4. He served in the Russian Navy under the pseudonym Pavel de Zhones.

5. Jones’s ship, the Bonhomme Richard, was named in honor of Benjamin Franklin’s “Poor Richard’s Almanack.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Paul Jones

1. “I have not yet begun to fight!”

2. “An honorable Peace is and always was my first wish.”

3. “I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go in harm’s way.”

4. “If fear is cultivated it will become stronger, if faith is cultivated it will achieve mastery.”

5. “Surrender? I have not yet begun to fight!”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John Paul Jones’s highest net worth is difficult to quantify in modern terms, as his wealth primarily came from prize money and his naval career, rather than personal wealth accumulation.