When was the official formation of the Naval Reserve?

The correct choice signifies the establishment of the United States Naval Reserve, which was officially formed on March 3, 1915. This was a significant development in the history of the U.S. Navy, as it allowed for the mobilization of civilian sailors in times of need, enhancing the Navy's capacity during periods of conflict.

The Naval Reserve was created to provide a flexible force that could be called upon to support the active duty fleet without the need for permanent additional personnel during peacetime. This system allowed for a more efficient and effective military readiness posture.

Other dates provided in the options are significant in different contexts. The date of January 1, 1900, does not mark any major event regarding the Naval Reserve specifically; rather, it can be associated with various aspects of naval evolution. November 11, 1918, is better known as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I, while December 7, 1941, is a pivotal date in U.S. history due to the attack on Pearl Harbor, which led to the U.S. entry into World War II. Understanding these contexts underscores the importance of the correct date tied to the official formation of the Naval Reserve.