U.S. Frigate Constellation #1

The U.S. Frigate Constellation, the first warship of the United States Navy, faces a crisis when Captain Truxtun demands strict water rationing to extend supplies during a voyage, threatening to execute any sailor who takes more than his share. When the ship encounters a French vessel, the Constellation engages in battle, with her guns firing on the enemy and forcing the French captain to signal surrender. During her four-year Mediterranean patrol beginning in 1805, the Constellation later encounters and pursues the Algerian pirate ship Mashuda in June 1815, ultimately capturing the vessel through superior firepower and seamanship, demonstrating American naval superiority and contributing to a treaty with the Barbary States.