The incredible true story of America’s first foreign war that most history classes skip over.

In 1801, President Thomas Jefferson faced a crisis: North African pirates were capturing American ships and enslaving sailors. European powers paid tribute to avoid attacks, but Jefferson refused. His decision launched the First Barbary War (1801-1805)—a conflict that would birth the U.S. Navy tradition and give us the Marine Corps’ famous battle cry: “to the shores of Tripoli.”

This episode covers:
• Why Barbary pirates targeted American merchant ships
• The dramatic capture and burning of the USS Philadelphia
• Stephen Decatur’s daring nighttime raid that amazed Admiral Nelson• Commodore Edward Preble’s transformation of the U.S. Navy
• William Eaton’s impossible 500-mile desert march with just 8 Marines
• The legendary Battle of Derna that became Marine Corps legend

Featuring diplomatic intrigue, naval battles, desert warfare, and the young nation’s first steps onto the world stage. Perfect for fans of military history, naval warfare, and early American history.

Runtime: 28 minutes

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