I totally understand. Remember in 1941 we had very few such “skilled shipwrights.” Same as in 1800, when we built six pretty good frigates (including a couple that were exceptional).
My point is, when Americans really need to, we have it in our character to step up.
Like Churchill said, “Americans can always be counted on to do the right thing . . . after they’ve exhausted all other alternatives.”
Back then we had quite a lot more shipyards and a core of shipwrights and designers, especially back in 1812. They only had to be expanded, whereas we don’t have that today.
Character counts, but it only goes so far when you don’t have resources to apply it to.