A Brief Biography of David Farragut

Introduction/Childhood

Perhaps the most noticeable part of David Farragut's life is his career in the a Civil War as a courageous navy officer. Not only that, but he played an important role in the Battle of Louisiana, Vicksburg and Mobile Bay. His famous line, "Damn the torpedoes!" is remembered by naval officers as a courageous Farragut struggles to navigate torpedo infested waters at the Battle of Mobile Bay. An officer from a young age, Farragut is what any navy desires: a smart, brave, and loyal commander. Farragut was born on July 5, 1801 to Major Jorge Farragut. Jorge Farragut was a Spanish sailor in the US army during the American Revolution. Farragut was originally named James Glasgow Farragut; he was born in Tennessee. A few years after Farragut was born, his family moved to Louisiana. While his father, Jorge, was fishing, he came across a rowboat that held an unconscious old man. Jorge nursed the old man until he died. Later, a man by the name of David Porter claimed the man as his father. Porter was a rising star of the U.S. Navy. As a display of gratitude for Jorge, Porter offered to take young Farragut out to sea as a sort of navy apprentice,also known as a midshipman. Jorge was grateful and immediately accepted the offer. A young Farragut entered the navy at age 9. To honor his foster father, Farragut later changed his name from James to David.

Early Naval Career

In a few weeks, Farragut headed to Washington while his guardian sailed off. He attended naval academy; a year later, Porter returned and brought the nine year old Farragut to the war ship Essex, which was anchored in Norfolk, Virginia. Farragut served as the youngest midshipman on board. He proved to be brave, loyal, and determined, especially when he was ...

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