Key Figures

Thomas Jefferson: As a statesman, Thomas Jefferson opposed paying tribute to the pirates, but the U.S Navy was not experienced enough to handle the situation. However, when Thomas Jefferson became President of the United States, he was able to send the U.S Navy to fight the pirates instead of paying the tribute. He also commenced the blockade of Tripoli against the Barbary pirates in 1803, which is considered the first Barbary War.

Edward Preble: Edward Preble was the commander of an American fleet that blockaded the harbor of Tripoli. The USS Philadelphia was captured by the Barbary pirates in this siege.

Stephen Decatur: Lieutenant Stephen Decatur sailed into the Tripoli harbor to recapture the USS Philadelphia. Once recaptured, the ship was burned to prevent the pirates from using it.

William Eaton: Commander William Eaton was an American marine who planned and led the attack to capture Derna after the USS Philadelphia sank in Tripoli. Although the attack was a success, Algiers and Tunis continued to be a threat to America.

James Madison: After Thomas Jefferson, James Madison became president and ended the Barbary wars in 1815 when he sent a naval force to the Mediterranean. With this second Barbary War, the United States Navy went through more of a development.