John Paul Jones was a sailor. The predicate noun in this sentence is sailor.
The predicate noun, also known as a predicate nominative, is a noun or pronoun that follows a linking verb (in this case, "was") and renames or identifies the subject. In this sentence, "John Paul Jones" is the subject, and "sailor" is the predicate noun that identifies his occupation.
John Paul Jones, born in 1747, was a historical figure known for his contributions as a naval commander during the American Revolutionary War. Serving in the Continental Navy, he achieved fame for his naval victories and is often considered one of the founding fathers of the United States Navy.
Beyond his role as a sailor, Jones became a symbol of naval prowess and patriotism, contributing to the early development and reputation of the American naval forces. His legacy as a skilled and daring naval officer extends well beyond the predicate noun in this sentence, encompassing a rich history of naval achievements and national service.