Retrospective: The First International Action of the US Navy in 1804

I invite you to journey back to 1804 and explore a pivotal moment in naval history when Commodore Edward Preble led the US Navy's first significant international action against the formidable Barbary pirates. Discover how this historic campaign laid the groundwork for modern maritime security efforts, reflecting in today's international cooperation in the Red Sea.

"If you don't know the past,

you can't understand the present and can't shape the future"

Helmut Kohl

In 1804, the United States conducted its first significant international military operation, known as the First Barbary War. This campaign was a response to the ongoing threat posed by the Barbary pirates, who had been terrorizing Mediterranean shipping for centuries. The North African states of Tripoli, Tunis, Algiers, and Morocco, collectively known as the Barbary States, engaged in systematic piracy and extorted tribute payments from merchant ships in exchange for safe passage. After the United States gained independence, American merchant ships were no longer under the protection of the British Navy, making them increasingly targeted by these pirates. The American government was compelled to submit to the Barbary States' high demands, ultimately leading to the decision to seek a military solution. This decision marked the beginning of an era in which the United States actively defended its economic and strategic interests overseas by deploying a young but resolute navy.

The Role of Commodore Edward Preble

Commodore Edward Preble, an experienced and determined naval officer, led a squadron of the new US Navy into the Mediterranean to neutralize the threat posed by the Barbary pirates. With a fleet consisting of frigates and schooners equipped with the latest artillery and well-trained crews, Preble launched a series of coastal attacks and naval battles against the Barbary States. The siege and assault on the heavily fortified harbour of Tripoli in 1804 were pivotal moments. Through the use of innovative tactics, such as deploying cutter boats and fire ships, Preble managed to breach the Barbary defences and inflict significant damage. These military actions ultimately led to securing a peace treaty that provided favourable terms for the United States, including the release of American prisoners and the cessation of tribute payments. Preble's leadership and the bravery of his men set a standard for future naval operations of the US Navy.

Connection to the Current Situation in the Red Sea

Background of Current Threats

Today, the Red Sea is a crucial maritime route for international trade, particularly for the transport of oil from the Gulf states to markets in Europe and Asia. However, this route is vulnerable to various security threats, especially piracy, primarily perpetrated by Somali pirates. These pirates operate with high-speed skiffs and are often heavily armed, posing a significant threat to merchant vessels and even warships. In addition to piracy, there are geopolitical tensions and conflicts in the region that jeopardize the security of shipping lanes. International military presence, including the US Navy, is thus active in this region to protect trade routes and ensure maritime security. Operations involve deploying warships, reconnaissance aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles to monitor and prevent pirate activities.

Parallels and Differences

• Piracy: The threat posed by pirates in the 19th century and today shows notable parallels. In both cases, criminal maritime groups threaten free trade on the high seas. The Barbary pirates of the 19th century, operating from their heavily fortified coastal bases, resemble modern Somali pirates who use fast, agile skiffs and modern communication tools to pursue their targets. Both groups pursue similar goals: extortion of ransom and tribute payments in exchange for the safe passage of merchant ships.
• International Cooperation: Both the historical and current piracy threats require international cooperation. In the case of the First Barbary War, the United States independently conducted a determined military campaign to neutralize the pirates. Today, various nations, including the US, work together within multinational coalitions to ensure security in the Red Sea. The Combined Task Force 151, a multinational anti-piracy task force, exemplifies such international collaboration, where resources and information are shared to enable more effective anti-piracy measures.
• Military Tactics: Military tactics for combating piracy have evolved significantly over the centuries. While Commodore Preble relied on direct assaults and blockades, modern naval forces employ a combination of advanced technology and specialized training. This includes using satellite surveillance, drones, electronic warfare, and specialized anti-piracy units capable of responding quickly and efficiently to threats. The integration of intelligence and real-time communication allows for precise and coordinated operations.
• Political Dimensions: Today's military operations in the Red Sea have a complex political dimension. The presence of international warships aims not only to combat piracy but also to contribute to stability in a region characterized by many geopolitical tensions and conflicts. In contrast, the First Barbary War had a clearer objective: protecting American trade interests and freeing hostages. Modern maritime operations must consider a multitude of factors, including diplomatic relations, regional power struggles, and the necessity of keeping trade routes open and secure for the global economy.

The action of the US Navy under Commodore Edward Preble in 1804 set a significant precedent for the international deployment of US naval forces to protect trade and national interests. This historical operation is reflected in the modern military measures required to secure international shipping lanes in the Red Sea. Both scenarios underscore the enduring importance of naval nations in maintaining free trade and international security on the world's oceans. The lessons from the First Barbary War remain relevant, emphasizing the need to respond decisively to maritime security threats through direct military action, international cooperation, and the use of advanced technologies. The continued presence of the US Navy and other international forces in the Red Sea demonstrates the ongoing importance of maritime security for the global trade economy and geopolitical stability.

Parallel to this is a need to ensure that practical measures are taken to protect seafarers, cargoes and vessels. From the management ashore, through to the team onboard there needs to be an awareness of the local piracy problems, as well as an ability and willingness to take the necessary actions to safeguard and protect their vessels.