Thomas Jefferson was upset. Rather than pay tribute and ransom for American sailors held by the Barbary States of North Africa, Jefferson went to war. Taking advantage of the navy, he blockaded the port of Tripoli, hoping to extract some concessions. While the war ultimately failed in its stated purpose, the conflict fostered the continued professionalism of the US Navy and established a precedent of the American navy protecting the country's interests overseas. Thanks for listening!

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