In what year did the Navy launch its first iron-hulled warship?

The year the Navy launched its first iron-hulled warship was 1843. This significant event marked a pivotal moment in naval history, as it demonstrated a shift in shipbuilding technology from traditional wooden vessels to iron construction. The USS Monitor, which famously battled the CSS Virginia in 1862, is often associated with the advancements in iron-hulled warships, but it was not the first. The early introduction of iron-hulled ships allowed for greater durability and improved combat capabilities, paving the way for modern naval warfare. Understanding this timeline is essential for comprehending the industrial and technological advancements that influenced naval strategy and ship design in the 19th century.