Summary
In a fierce night battle at sea, Captain John Paul Jones's ship is shattered and sinking — yet when the British demand his surrender he roars, “I have not yet begun to fight!” and captures their warship instead. James reports on the daring birth of American naval courage.
Viewer safety
Animated battle sequences — cannon fire, troops maneuvering. No graphic wounds or death shown.
Our rating is a quick teacher-to-teacher guide — preview before showing.
Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Discussion
John Paul Jones refused to surrender even as his ship was falling apart. His victory gave the young United States a hero and a navy to be proud of.
- What did John Paul Jones mean by “I have not yet begun to fight” when his ship was sinking?
- Why was control of the sea important in a war fought across an ocean?
- Where is the line between brave determination and refusing to accept reality?
- When has refusing to give up changed the outcome of something for you?
Quick work-a-long
Vocabulary: navy, captain, surrender, determination, warship.
Try it: Write a one-line motto, like Jones's, that captures the spirit of never giving up. Then write two sentences explaining a moment when that motto would help you.