In mid-1916, the battleship USS Arizona (BB-39) appeared on the East River, New York City. This was an important event in the history of the United States Navy, marking the birth of one of the most powerful battleships of that time.
USS Arizona was one of two Pennsylvania-class ships, built at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. After launching on June 19, 1915, the ship continued to be fitted out and tested for more than a year before officially joining the fleet. In early 1916, the ship conducted trials and was mobilized by the United States Navy to many different areas to demonstrate its power as well as carry out training missions.
When it appeared on the East River in mid-1916, USS Arizona was one of the most modern battleships in the world, equipped with powerful 14-inch guns and thick armor protection. The ship’s mooring or transiting of the East River may have been part of a test cruise or a public demonstration of American naval power. The event also attracted the attention of many New Yorkers, as they witnessed a symbol of military power right in the heart of the city.
Despite its impressive beginnings, the USS Arizona later became associated with one of the most tragic events in American history – the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. However, by mid-1916, it was still the pride of the US Navy, symbolizing the strong development of naval forces in the 20th century.
