United States Maritime Commission

The United States Maritime Commission, established in 1936, was a government agency responsible for regulating and supporting the U.S. merchant marine industry. Its main roles included promoting the construction of ships, ensuring a strong maritime workforce, and managing the allocation of shipping resources, especially during World War II. The Commission aimed to maintain a capable and efficient maritime fleet to support national defense and commerce. It laid the groundwork for modern maritime policy and was succeeded by the Maritime Administration (MARAD) in 1961.