George Bancroft was a historian and secretary of the Navy. Often referred to as the father of American history, he is best known for his comprehensive work on the history of the United States.

George Bancroft, the historian ... envoy to Great Britain, and secretary of the navy. He signalized his administration of this latter position by the foundation of the naval academy at Annapolis ...

In 1897, President McKinley appointed Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Roosevelt's enthusiastic ... and appointed George Dewey to command the Asiatic Squadron.