AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: Jefferson & Foreign Affairs (Day 80/309)

Welcome to today’s explanation of Jefferson and Foreign Affairs in my series- APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!

During the Jefferson administration, difficulties arose with several North African countries, France and Britain.

A 17th-century map showing the Barbary Coast, "Barbaria" Wikimedia Commons

Morocco, Algiers, Tunis, and Tripoli were known as the Barbary states and were known for engaging in piracy to plunder merchant ships. The Barbary governments required tribute payments to prevent actions of piracy.

Burning of the Frigate Philadelphia in the Harbor of Tripoli, Wikimedia Commons

While Washington and Adams had agreed to pay tribute, the amount required increased for Jefferson. He refused and sent the U.S. Navy to the Mediterranean. Sporadic fighting ensued in the Barbary Wars. The U.S. was not victorious but did earn foreign respect.

British capturing American sailors, Sutori

In the Napoleonic Wars, the U.S. continued to attempt neutrality. This however was not respected by France and Britain as they continued to impress American sailors and seize American ships.

Combat between USS Constitution and HMS Guerriere, Wikimedia Commons

Following the precedent of isolationism, Jefferson sought to avoid war. However, with efforts to safeguard American ships, trade disruptions and tensions increased. 

International affairs posed significant challenges in the early 1800s. The Barbary Wars, as well as continued conflict with France and Britain, were not successfully resolved during the Jefferson administration.

Join me tomorrow as I explain the Embargo Act of 1807 in the next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!