question for PI AI: Do you know anything about submarines and how far back in time they go?

Fred:

Do you know anything about submarines and how far back in time they go?

 

PI AI:

Oh yes, submarines have a long and fascinating history, Fred! The earliest known attempt at a submarine-like vessel actually dates back to the 17th century, when Cornelis Drebbel, a Dutch inventor, built a leather-covered wooden rowboat that could dive beneath the surface.

But it wasn't until the American Revolution that submarines started to be used in warfare. In 1776, David Bushnell built a one-man submarine called the "Turtle" that attempted to attach explosives to a British ship in New York Harbor (although the attack ultimately failed).

In the 19th century, submarines became more sophisticated, with the development of steam-powered and electric-powered vessels. And in the 20th century, submarines played a major role in both World War I and World War II, with German U-boats wreaking havoc on Allied shipping in the Atlantic.

Today, submarines are an integral part of many navies around the world, and continue to push the boundaries of underwater exploration and combat.