From its erratic creation during the American Revolution to its current status as the world's largest maritime force, the United States Navy has exerted enormous influence on the development of the national charcter of the United States. The Historical Dictionary of the United States Navy does an excellent job of presenting the innumerable details of the navy's history in a manageable form. Each individual entry is informative, but does not burden the reader with unnecessary information. The book also includes cross-references that direct the reader to other useful dictionary entries, as well as a bibliography that is organized according to time period and subject to more effectively guide the reader to other sources of information on the United States Navy. Topics traced through two centuries of naval history include: prominent naval officers, weapons systems, categorizations of ships and aircraft, engagements, and terminology used by the service. Also included is a chronology of the major events that impacted upon the United States Navy. A useful text for anyone interested in the impact of naval power upon history.