What was the original purpose of the United States Marine Corps?

The original purpose of the United States Marine Corps was fundamentally linked to conducting both land and ship combat, which reflects the Corps' dual role in the early years of its establishment. The Marine Corps was formed in 1775, with the intent to provide a highly mobile and versatile fighting force capable of operating on ships and on land during amphibious operations. This unique capability set the Marines apart from other service branches, allowing them to effectively carry out boarding actions and engage in close combat scenarios in support of Navy operations while also executing land assaults.

This dual focus continues to be a core aspect of Marine training and operational doctrine, emphasizing versatility and readiness to conduct operations across various environments. While elements like coastal defense and artillery support are also significant functions that the Corps has performed over the years, the primary mission that encapsulates the essence of the Marine Corps from its inception is its ability to conduct integrated land and naval combat effectively.