History Of The Marine Corps

The United States, barely three decades old, faced a crisis that tested its identity and resolve. After fighting a revolution to escape paying tribute to a distant empire, Americans found themselves doing the same—but this time to Barbary pirates. Captain William Bainbridge’s humiliating ordeal in Algiers exposed the weakness of U.S. foreign policy, forcing a national reckoning. With Thomas Jefferson in office, America would no longer tolerate extortion. A new era had begun—one that would shape the nation’s military and diplomatic future. ************* Visit HistoryoftheMarineCorps.com to subscribe to our newsletter, explore episode notes and images, and see our references. Follow us on social media for updates and bonus content: Facebook and Twitter (@marinehistory) and Instagram (@historyofthemarines). This episode is sponsored by Audible. Visit AudibleTrial.com/marinehistory for a free audiobook and a 30-day trial.