Thomas Jefferson was upset. Rather than pay tribute and ransom for American sailors held by the Barbary States of North Africa, Jefferson went to war. Taking advantage of the navy, he blockaded the port of Tripoli, hoping to extract some concessions. While the war ultimately failed in its stated purpose, the conflict fostered the continued professionalism of the US Navy and established a precedent of the American navy protecting the country's interests overseas. Thanks for listening!

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Zebulon Pike's explorations of the upper reaches of the Mississippi River, the Rocky Mountains, and the southwest are not as well know as his peers, Lewis and Clark. Pike's career was tied to James Wilkinson, the highest ranking officer in the Louisiana Purchase. Wilkinson was an unsavory character whose long shadow has obscured the importance of Pike's accomplishments. Taken together, Lewis, Clark, and Pike cemented the Army's reputation for their professionalism and the role the Army would play in the exploration and settlement of the west. NOTE: The audio is scratchy. Sorry about that! Please take a listen! 

Have a question, comment, or compliment, contact us at americawarpodcast@gmail.com. You can also leave comments and your questions on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/americaatwarpodcast/. Thanks for listening!