What warship earned the nickname 'Old Ironsides'?

The nickname 'Old Ironsides' refers to the USS Constitution, a wooden-hulled, three-masted frigate of the United States Navy that was launched in 1797. The vessel earned this nickname during the War of 1812 when British ships fired upon her, and the cannonballs appeared to bounce off her sturdy oak sides, giving the impression that she was made of iron rather than wood. This resilience not only bolstered American morale during the war but also solidified the USS Constitution’s status as a symbol of American naval strength and endurance.

The historical significance of the USS Constitution extends beyond its physical battles; it represents the early struggles of the United States Navy while emphasizing themes of national pride and the fight for liberty. Today, the USS Constitution is preserved as a museum ship, serving as a testament to the early maritime history of the United States and reminding visitors of its storied past.