Marines’ Miracle Victory at Derna Ended Barbary Wars

Marines made history in their victory over pirate states during the First Barbary War with a daring attack on Derna, a stronghold in present-day Libya that served as a base for the notorious Barbary Coast raiders. This climactic battle on April 27, 1805 led to negotiations just two months later and inspired the famous lyrics of “The Marines’ Hymn.” The fledgling United States Marine Corps demonstrated its bravery in this victory against overwhelming numbers after a grueling 400-mile march from Egypt with an international mercenary force. This feat, which included mutiny, hunger, thirst, and religious tension, was “a miracle” on par with the actual attack itself as U.S Navy ships supported these unprepared but resolved men under Colonel William Eaton’s leadership to redefine joint-force attacks in American military history. The victory at Derna forced Barbary pirate leaders to negotiate an end to hostilities, freeing 297 crewmen of the Philadelphia who had been captured and taken prisoner after their ship ran aground off Tripoli during a previous campaign by President Thomas Jefferson’s fleet sent out in response to British diplomats informing these raiders that American ships were now fair game. This achievement also earned praise from Yusuf Karamanliand himself, as his brother recognized the bravery of Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon and presented him with a sword which has since become a pattern for Marine officers’ swords today. The naval historian at National Museum of the Marine Corps describes this event in American history: “The assault was successful because of intrepid leadership, U.S Navy support, and tenacity.”