Further, the Barbary Coast powers held the peculiar policy that any country not having a “peace” treaty with them were considered to be at war. Obtaining a peace treaty required an annual “gift” to the ruling poo-paas. The Barbary Coast states were running a shakedown racket. It was a method of extracting tribute or, failing a payment, an excuse to pursue piracy under the pretext of honorable warfare.
Moreover, it seems that the Tripoli treaty was initiated under the Washington Administration and was drawn up by Joel Barlow. Reportedly, the draft in possession of Tripoli did not contain the wording at issue. Nor can any such language be found in similar treaties with Algiers and Tunis. Nor is it entirely clear that Adams (or Washington) ever saw the language of the “peace” treaty version voted on by the Senate.
Thanks for your views and the support you offer.
Thanks. I didn’t know about Washington’s role in all that.
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