What was the name of the first U.S. submarine used in warfare?

The first U.S. submarine used in warfare was named Turtle. Designed by David Bushnell during the American Revolution, Turtle was an innovative vessel intended for attacking British ships. It was a one-man submarine, notable for its unique shape and hand-powered screw propeller. Turtle had the goal of attaching explosives to the hulls of enemy ships, which highlighted its role as a pioneering effort in undersea warfare.

This submersible laid the groundwork for future naval engineering and demonstrated the potential for underwater combat, even though it ultimately did not achieve significant operational success in its time. Understanding Turtle's historical significance helps in appreciating the evolution of naval warfare and the development of submarines in the U.S. Navy.