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

The establishment of the United States Marine Corps is credited to Captain Samuel Nicholas. He is recognized as the first Commandant of the Marine Corps, having been appointed in 1775 when the Continental Congress formed two battalions of Marines. Nicholas played a crucial role in developing the Corps during its earliest days and is often referred to as the founding figure due to his leadership and the organizational structure he helped to establish. His contributions laid the foundation for what would become a pivotal military branch in the United States Armed Forces.