Who is credited with the establishment of the United States Marine Corps?

The establishment of the United States Marine Corps is primarily credited to Captain Samuel Nicholas. He was appointed as the first Commandant of the Marines in 1775 and played a crucial role in recruiting and organizing the Corps during its formative years. His leadership and vision in creating a reliable fighting force for the fledgling nation laid the groundwork for what the Marine Corps would become.

While other figures in the Marine Corps' history, such as General David Berger, Colonel John Lejeune, and Major General Charles Krulak, have made significant contributions and advancements to the Corps, it was Captain Samuel Nicholas who was directly involved in its inception and foundational structure.