Introduction
The United States Marine Corps has a storied history filled with heroic battles, but one of its earliest and most defining engagements was the Battle of Derna in 1805. This battle, part of the First Barbary War, was the first time the U.S. flag was raised in victory on foreign soil. The conflict gave rise to the famous phrase in the Marine Hymn: "To the shores of Tripoli." This article explores the battle’s background, the role of the Marine Corps, and its lasting impact on military history.
Background: The First Barbary War
In the early 19th century, the Barbary States (modern-day Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya) demanded tribute from nations wishing to trade in the Mediterranean. When the U.S. refused to pay exorbitant fees, the Pasha of Tripoli declared war in 1801, leading to the First Barbary War (1801-1805). President Thomas Jefferson authorized a naval blockade and military action to combat the Barbary pirates, culminating in a bold assault on Derna, a key port city in modern-day Libya.
The Role of the U.S. Marine Corps
The Battle of Derna was part of a daring overland campaign led by William Eaton, a former U.S. Army officer serving as the U.S. Consul to Tunis. Eaton aimed to overthrow Pasha Yusuf Karamanli and replace him with his exiled brother, Hamet Karamanli. With limited U.S. military resources, he assembled a small force, including eight U.S. Marines under the command of Lieutenant Presley O’Bannon. They were joined by around 500 mercenaries, including Arab, Greek, and Berber fighters.
March to Derna
The Marines and their allies embarked on a grueling 500-mile trek across the Libyan desert, facing extreme heat, food shortages, and infighting among their ranks. Despite the hardships, they reached Derna in April 1805, where they prepared for battle against Tripolitan forces defending the city.
The Battle of Derna
On April 27, 1805, Eaton and O’Bannon launched their attack on Derna. The plan involved a naval bombardment by U.S. warships offshore while the Marines and allied forces attacked from land.
Key Phases of the Battle:
Naval Bombardment – U.S. ships opened fire on the Tripolitan defenses, weakening their fortifications.
Ground Assault – Eaton, O’Bannon, and their troops advanced under heavy musket fire.
Capture of the Fort – The Marines stormed the city, seized the enemy fort, and raised the U.S. flag in victory—the first time it had been planted in conquest on foreign soil.
Aftermath and Legacy
The success at Derna proved that U.S. forces could conduct effective land and naval operations far from home. Although Eaton’s ultimate goal of installing Hamet Karamanli was abandoned due to a peace treaty with Tripoli, the battle cemented the Marine Corps’ reputation for bravery and adaptability.
"To the Shores of Tripoli"
The Battle of Derna inspired the opening line of the Marine Hymn, which begins, "From the Halls of Montezuma to the Shores of Tripoli." The legacy of the Marines' valor at Derna is still honored today, with Lieutenant O’Bannon receiving a ceremonial Mameluke sword, which later became part of the official Marine officer’s dress uniform.
Conclusion
The Battle of Derna (1805) was a landmark event in U.S. military history, showcasing the courage and tenacity of the United States Marine Corps. This early victory demonstrated America's growing military power and established a legacy that Marines continue to uphold to this day. The phrase "To the shores of Tripoli" remains a testament to their bravery and commitment to defending U.S. interests worldwide.