Contents
Background
The Barbary States were North African Ottoman provinces and vassal states:
- Tripoli (modern Libya)
- Tunis (Tunisia)
- Algiers (Algeria)
- Morocco (an independent kingdom)
These states engaged in state-sponsored piracy, attacking ships in the Mediterranean and demanding tribute payments from countries to prevent further harassment. European powers had long paid these bribes. After the U.S. gained independence, it lost the protection of the British navy and became a target.
Jefferson’s Early Opposition
Before becoming president, Jefferson was a staunch critic of paying tribute. In 1786, while serving as minister to France, Jefferson and John Adams (minister to Britain) met with a Barbary ambassador. When they asked by what right the Barbary States attacked American ships, the envoy replied it was “written in the Quran”—that it was their divine right to plunder non-Muslims.
Jefferson was appalled and believed the only way to end the piracy was through force, not bribes.
The First Barbary War (1801–1805)
When Jefferson became President in 1801, the Pasha of Tripoli demanded an increase in tribute. Jefferson refused. In response, Tripoli declared war on the U.S.
Jefferson sent the newly-formed U.S. Navy and Marine Corps to the Mediterranean in what became known as the First Barbary War.
Key events:
- USS Philadelphia ran aground and was captured.
- Stephen Decatur led a daring raid to destroy the Philadelphia so it could not be used by the enemy.
- In 1805, U.S. forces (including Marines) helped support a coup against the Pasha’s brother, leading to a treaty that ended hostilities.
This is the origin of the line in the Marine Corps Hymn:
“…to the shores of Tripoli.”
The Second Barbary War (1815)
Although piracy resumed later, Jefferson’s successor James Madison authorized the Second Barbary War. Led by Stephen Decatur, the U.S. crushed the Barbary fleets. This ended the era of paying tribute and firmly established U.S. naval power in the Mediterranean.
Significance
- Asserted U.S. sovereignty and resolve abroad.
- Helped justify the creation and expansion of the U.S. Navy.
- Set a precedent for refusing to appease extortion through diplomacy alone.
- Was one of the first major military conflicts of the U.S. after independence.
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