Who was the president that established the Department of the Navy?

The establishment of the Department of the Navy was a significant moment in U.S. history, occurring during the presidency of John Adams. He signed the act that officially created the Department of the Navy in 1798 in response to the need for a coordinated naval strategy amid increasing tensions with France, particularly during the Quasi-War. This action marked the beginning of a more organized naval force separate from the Department of War, recognizing the role of naval power in the country's defense and military strategy.

George Washington was the first president but did not establish the Department of the Navy as it was created after his presidency. Thomas Jefferson, while influential in naval affairs and expeditions like the Barbary Wars, did not initiate the creation of the Department. James Madison also played a key role in U.S. history but had no direct involvement in forming the Department of the Navy, as it had already been established before his presidency.