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Today in History: Captain Lawrence's Last Words: "Don't Give Up the Ship!"

6/1/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On June 1, 1813, during the War of 1812, HMS Shannon captured USS Chesapeake in a fierce battle off Boston. U.S. Navy Captain James Lawrence, mortally wounded, famously urged his crew, "Don't give up the ship!" This encounter resulted in 71 casualties and remains a significant naval event in American history.

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Story summary

On June 1, 1813, during the War of 1812, HMS Shannon captured USS Chesapeake in a fierce battle off Boston. U.S. Navy Captain James Lawrence, mortally wounded, famously urged his crew, "Don't give up the ship!" This encounter resulted in 71 casualties and remains a significant naval event in American history.