"Free to Beg Or to Fight" Thomas Jefferson and Relations with Barbary, 1785-1805
Abstract
Thomas Jefferson, with great consistency, supported American action against the threat of the Barbary pirates. His peers and the great powers of Europe during this time advocated continuing the established tradition of tribute and ransom. In contrast, Jefferson moderated his calls for war based upon the ability of the United States: initially, as part of an international confederation of smaller nations during the 1780s to the sole power willing to fight during his presidency. Throughout his career, Jefferson advocated a position that would not only display American strength, but also affirm his belief in the freedom of the seas and commerce.
Collections
- OSU Theses [15752]