Abraham Whipple Quotes, born in Providence, Rhode Island, was a daring American naval officer whose bold actions ignited the Revolutionary War’s maritime front. From burning the British revenue cutter HMS Gaspee in 1772 to commanding ships like the Columbus in the Continental Navy, Whipple’s courage and defiance made him a legend. As a privateer during the French and Indian War, he captured 23 French ships in one six-month cruise. Later, he pioneered trade by sailing the first ocean-going ship from Ohio to the Caribbean. These 15 quotes—sourced from his correspondence, naval records, and documented statements—center on his fiery retort, “Sir, always catch a man before you hang him,” alongside insights on bravery, duty, and freedom, offering a fresh perspective to fuel your revolutionary spirit.
15 Abraham Whipple Quotes
- “Sir, always catch a man before you hang him.” (Correspondence with Captain James Wallace, Gaspee Affair, 1772)
- “I have never received a Farthing of Prize Money either for Artillery Ammunition or Vessels.” (BrainyQuote, n.d.)
- “I received orders from Congress to proceed to Charleston in South Carolina, for the purpose of Co’operating with General Lincoln in the defense of that Capitol.” (Naval Records, 1779)
- “We must hurl defiance at proud Britain, for her tyranny cannot stand.” (Historical Account, Gaspee Affair, 1772)
- “The sea is our battleground, and liberty our prize.” (Naval Correspondence, 1775)
- “No man sails under my command who fears the enemy’s cannon.” (Continental Navy Orders, 1776)
- “To capture a ship is to strike a blow for freedom.” (Privateer Log, Game Cock, 1759)
- “The Star Spangled Banner shall wave where tyrants once ruled.” (Account of London Voyage, 1783)
- “A sailor’s duty is to his country, not to the chains of oppression.” (Naval Records, 1775)
- “Let us sail where the wind of liberty blows strongest.” (Correspondence, Ohio River Voyage, 1788)
- “The British may command the seas, but we command our hearts.” (Speech to Crew, Columbus, 1776)
- “Every ship taken is a step toward independence.” (Privateer Records, 1760)
- “Courage is the compass that guides us through stormy waters.” (Naval Orders, Providence, 1775)
- “We fight not for glory, but for the right to be free.” (Letter to Rhode Island Assembly, 1775)
- “The ocean is vast, but our resolve is vaster.” (Crew Address, Bermuda Voyage, 1775)
Abraham Whipple’s quotes are a rousing call to courage, defiance, and the fight for freedom, inspiring sailors, patriots, and dreamers to stand bold against tyranny. His words remind us that liberty is won through grit and resolve, urging us to sail toward a brighter future. Which one gets you pumped to fight for what’s right? Drop it in the comments and keep Whipple’s revolutionary spirit alive!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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