A young navy took on the world's most powerful fleet and brought home a prize.

On October 25, 1812, during the War of 1812, the American frigate USS United States, commanded by Stephen Decatur, defeated and captured the British frigate HMS Macedonian near Madeira.

Decatur sailed the captured ship back across the Atlantic. It was the first British warship ever brought into an American port as a prize after losing a battle at sea. The victory made Decatur a national hero, and his prize money later helped him build Decatur House near the White House.

Why it still matters: early wins like this gave the young U.S. Navy confidence and a reputation.

What's the most surprising underdog win you know?

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