History Of The Marine Corps

This episode picks up after the War of 1812, when American merchantmen returned to open waters and resumed global trade. As routes expanded into the Pacific, Southeast Asia became a key target for American commerce. That success brought new risks. In 1831, the merchant ship Friendship was attacked and looted by pirates at Quallah Battoo. President Andrew Jackson authorized a punitive expedition led by Commodore John Downes and a large detachment of Marines. What followed was a brutal amphibious assault designed to send a message: the United States would protect its merchants abroad by force, if necessary.  ************* 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). Visit AudibleTrial.com/marinehistory for a free audiobook and a 30-day trial.