Talk:HMS Macedonian

Untitled

POV

The comparison of the broadside weights of metal is done in such a way to imply that the victory of the United States over the Macedonian was soley due to the disparity in cannon size. Both ships were classed as frigates. British ships of the period habitually took on larger opponents and won. Decatur used his ship's advantages tactically and beat Carden - this was the true cause for the taking of the Macedonian. While USS United States had heavier guns, that by no means assured victory. Please reference HMS Speedy vs El Gamo for what may be the most famous example of a much smaller warship taking on a larger opponant and winning handily.

I added one sentence to the article 'She was also ably commanded by Stephen Decatur.' I believe this corrects the potential POV issue. There is an article here on Decatur. Could someone more computer able then I link to the name?

Probably the most judicious way to phrase is to mention both broadside weight and tactical skill, but not to draw a firm conclusion either way, at most quoting naval historians that have ventured an opinion (Mackay says Macedonian "never had a chance" based on weights alone, for instance). We don't need another Decatur link, got one a couple paragraphs above due to their meeting at dinner. Stan 21:27, 2 September 2005 (UTC)