Who commanded the first Continental naval squadron?

Esek Hopkins was appointed as the commander of the first Continental naval squadron during the American Revolutionary War. His leadership was crucial in establishing the Continental Navy and coordinating naval operations against British forces. Hopkins led significant missions, including a notable expedition that involved attacking British shipping and securing strategic positions.

While other figures such as John Paul Jones and Benjamin Franklin are well known for their contributions to the naval efforts during the war, they did not hold the specific command of the first naval squadron. John Paul Jones became famous for his daring raids and is often called the father of the American Navy, but his prominence came later. Similarly, Benjamin Franklin was instrumental in diplomacy and securing French support for the revolution, but he was not a naval commander. George Washington played a critical role as the commander of the Continental Army, but he was not directly involved in naval operations like Hopkins was. Thus, Esek Hopkins stands out as the correct answer for having commanded the first Continental naval squadron.