While Thomas Jefferson served as Minister to France (1784–1788) and Secretary of State (1789–1793), he advised Congress on securing peace with Algiers and urged using naval power to combat piracy rather than paying ransom or tribute. Jefferson later made these notes on Barbary State fleets while Vice President (1797–1801).
Manuscript Division, Library of Congress
Thomas Jefferson, Notes on the size of the Barbary Navy, ca. 1799–1800
Protection from Piracy
Barbary pirates preyed on ships off Africa's western and Mediterranean coasts for centuries. After U.S. independence, Britain withdrew protections for American ships formerly stipulated in treaties with the Barbary States. In the 1780s and 1790s, pirates captured and enslaved many American sailors, demanding exorbitant ransom payments. After diplomatic means failed, Congress authorized the creation of the U.S. Navy to prevent further raids on American commerce.
While Thomas Jefferson served as Minister to France (1784–1788) and Secretary of State (1789–1793), he advised Congress on securing peace with Algiers and urged using naval power to combat piracy rather than paying ransom or tribute. Jefferson later made these notes on Barbary State fleets while Vice President (1797–1801).
Manuscript Division, Library of Congress
