See Also: Tripolitan(dictionary)
Tripolitan War(encyclopedia)

Tripolitan War (sh)




(1801-05) Conflict between the U.S. and Tripoli.

The U.S. refused to continue paying tribute to the rulers of the North African Barbary Coast states, which had bought immunity from pirate attacks in the Mediterranean. The pasha of Tripoli demanded greater tribute and then declared war on the U.S. (1801). A U.S. naval squadron was sent to Tripolitan waters and fought several skirmishes, including a raid by Stephen Decatur. A U.S. naval blockade and an overland expedition from Egypt ended the war with a peace treaty favourable to the U.S.