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when was the marine corps founded

The United States Marine Corps was founded on November 10, 1775, when the Second Continental Congress ordered two battalions of Continental Marines to be raised in Philadelphia.

Key date

  • The Marine Corps traces its origins to the Continental Marines , established on November 10, 1775, during the American Revolutionary War.
  • This date is officially recognized and celebrated every year as the Marine Corps Birthday.

Extra historical context

  • The original resolution in 1775 created Marines as naval landing forces to serve with the Continental Navy’s ships.
  • Although the Continental Marines were disbanded after the Revolution and the Corps was formally reestablished in 1798, November 10, 1775 remains the honored founding date.