Unless you know the story, like fiction, this is a nail biter. Yes, you surmise the POWs/slaves will be freed (or there would be no line in the MarineUnless you know the story, like fiction, this is a nail biter. Yes, you surmise the POWs/slaves will be freed (or there would be no line in the Marine Corps Hymn) but you don’t know how, when, how many or under what conditions. As you learn about the miserable situation of the captives, the incompetence of the negotiators and the sacrifice of the US Navy, even 200+ years later, you care.
Richard Zachs is thorough. He does not end it in the Mediterranean, he takes it home to its conclusion in the US. The heroes are welcomed against the backdrop of negotiations and cover ups in Washington. This piece of history stretches into the trial of Aaron Burr.
The episode shows an unflattering side of Thomas Jefferson who, historically, and dubiously, is credited with successful resolution of the Barbary issue. Like Eaton, you mourn for the missed opportunity. The “Epilogue” follows up on the later life (and roles in history) of the key players and makes you curious for more.
I see there is a movie, “Tripoli”, currently on YouTube. It was made in the 1950’s before the research unearthed by Richard Zachs.*
Zachs's recent reading of documents from the National Archives in Holland fleshes out the lives of the POWs/slaves and the weakness of the Yussef Karamanli’s government. Zachs also adds a modern perspective on the individuals. While he does not use the words “alcoholism” and “PTSD” you see them play out.
The “Notes” show the scope of research. The book has a good Index. The maps inside the covers are hard to read. There are a few B & W plates of which the portraits of William Eaton, Tobias Lear and Fanny Lear, and William Bainbridge are most helpful.
I highly recommend this to readers of history. Friends who like historical fiction will like it too… and may cross over to reading more history in its pure form.
*I've now seen the movie which is an airbrushed view of the march to Derne. The troops, beautifully clad in clean and pressed uniforms, enjoy camping and evening entertainment. There is romantic interest as a woman (with a 1950's image of glamor) tries to marry the crown prince Hamet. It has a glorious arrival in Derne. The movie trivializes William Eaton and the commitment and contribution of his troops....more
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