John Paul Jones was born on July 6, 1747 in Scotland. He had a very difficult childhood, and as a result, he became very independent and driven. In 1765, at the age of 18, Jones joined the British Navy. Over the next few years, he distinguished himself as a brilliant naval officer, and played a significant role in many key military victories for the British Navy. He is perhaps best known for his victory over the French ship L’Affreux in 1779. In later years, Jones retired from the navy and lived out his days in Paris. He died there on July 18, 1792.
Discover the most interesting quotes from John Paul Jones, and much more.
Battles/Wars: Raid On Canso, Battle Of Nassau, Battle Of Block Island, Uss Providence Vs Hms Mellish, Irish/North Sea Campaign, Action Of 24 April 1778 And More.
Battles/Wars: Raid On Canso, Battle Of Nassau, Battle Of Block Island, Uss Providence Vs Hms Mellish, Irish/North Sea Campaign
Awards: Institution Du Mérite Militaire Congressional Gold Medal Order Of St. Anne
Inspiring Phrases From John Paul Jones
For you must know, Yankees do not haul down their colors till they are fairly beaten. — John Paul Jones
A navy is essentially and necessarily aristocratic. — John Paul Jones
Whoever can surprise well must conquer. — John Paul Jones
Surrender? I have not yet begun to fight! — John Paul Jones
It is true that I must run a great risk; no gallant action was ever accomplished without danger. — John Paul Jones
Since human wisdom cannot secure us from accidents, it is the greatest effort of reason to bear them well. — John Paul Jones
Nothing exciting ever happens to me. — John Paul Jones
Various Statements From John Paul Jones
No meritorious act of a subordinate should escape his attention, even if the reward be only one word of approval. Conversely, he should not be blind to a single fault in any subordinate. — John Paul Jones
My plan for forming a proper corps of sea officers is by teaching them the naval tactics in a fleet of evolution. — John Paul Jones
My desire for fame is infinite. — John Paul Jones
Where men of fine feeling are concerned there is seldom misunderstanding. — John Paul Jones
And without a respectable navy–alas, America! — John Paul Jones
An honorable Peace is and always was my first wish! I can take no delight in the effusion of human Blood; but, if this War should continue, I wish to have the most active part in it. — John Paul Jones
I have not yet begun to fight! — John Paul Jones
More Phrases From John Paul Jones
The situation of America is new in the annals of mankind; her affairs cry haste, and speed must answer them. — John Paul Jones
There is now, perhaps, as much difference between a battle between two ships and an engagement between two fleets, as there is between a duel and a ranged battle between two armies. — John Paul Jones
Much wisdom, and more knowledge than we possess, is in my humble opinion necessary to the formation of such a naval constitution as is absolutely wanting. — John Paul Jones
I have not as yet thought of it, but am determined to make you strike. — John Paul Jones
Redundant Thematics
In John Paul Jones Statements
navy
He who will not risk cannot win. — John Paul Jones
I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast; for I intend to go in harm’s way. — John Paul Jones
But I need use no arguments to convince you of the necessity of making the emoluments of our navy equal, if not superior, to theirs. — John Paul Jones
Deeper Quotes From John Paul Jones
It is by no means enough that an officer should be capable. — John Paul Jones
A captain of the line must at this day be a tactician. — John Paul Jones
I profess myself a citizen of the world, totally unfettered by the little, mean distinctions of climate or of country, which diminish the benevolence of the heart and set bounds to philanthropy. — John Paul Jones
I would lay down my life for America but I cannot trifle with my Honor. — John Paul Jones
He should be as well a gentleman of liberal education, refined manners, punctilious courtesy, and the nicest sense of personal honor. — John Paul Jones
If fear is cultivated it will become stronger, if faith is cultivated it will achieve mastery. — John Paul Jones
The common class of mankind are actuated by no nobler principle than that of self–interest; this and this alone determines all adventurers in privateers: the owners, as well as those whom they employ. — John Paul Jones
