Jefferson's War: America's First War on Terror 1801-1805

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Jefferson's War: America's First War on Terror 1801-1805

Author: Joseph Wheelan
Publisher: PublicAffairs
Copyright: 2012
Pages: 464
Cover Price: $ 18.95

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Author Joseph Wheelan has marvelously captured the story of America’s war against the Barbary pirates, our first war against terror and the nations that support it. The Barbary pirates, a Muslim enemy from Tripoli, attacked European and American merchant shipping with impunity. Jefferson ordered the U.S. Navy to Tripoli in 1801 to repel "force with force." The Barbary War was also a proving ground for such young officers as William Bainbridge, Stephen Decatur, Isaac Hull, and David Porter, who would be key players in the War of 1812 against Great Britain.

Background Information

The Barbary Coast, drawing its name from the Berbers who inhabited North Africa, was a haven for pirates who preyed on Mediterranean commerce two centuries ago. After the Continental Navy was allowed to lapse, the U.S. Navy was reconstituted and has defend America for over two centuries. Two American naval officers named Stephen Decatur fought in the American Revolution and the War of 1812 respectively. Sometimes called the second American war for independence, the War of 1812 was the last battle against foreign troops on American soil.