In the article, the idea that Oren promulgates concerns the American journey that allowed America to become what it is today. The author describes various stages in America’s journey to greatness, most of which were accompanied by difficulty, strife and even defeat, in certain instances. Regardless, the Americans that drove society at the time remained resilient, and they led America to its victories, allowing it to take the identity that it currently possesses.
The author’s thesis is not clearly stated but based on the content of the article; it appears that he wanted to prove that America’s identity was not gained by chance. It is a result of hard work and resilience. To support the same, the author discusses the triumphs and tribulations that America experienced starting with Bainbridge’s experiences in Istanbul and Algiers. In Algiers, the American Serviceman was humiliated and disrespected to the point that the hostiles took over the ship he and other Americans were traveling in, the George Washington. However, Bainbridge’s reception is Istanbul was the complete opposite characterized by a warm and somewhat fraternal feel. Soon after, President Jefferson came into power and sought to govern based on trivial notions like delinking America from international affairs and refusing to be associated with the military. Moreover, President Jefferson personally authorized military action in the Middle East, setting a precedent for future American presidents.
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Oren also speaks about “A modern Afrianus” to support his thesis. In this section, he explains Eaton’s involvement in the Continental Army. The author describes Eaton as an egoistic individual that could not take orders. In the war against the Middle East, he aimed at upholding his truth about the existence of a “Universal God,” and he vowed to terminate the “Mohametons’” ideologies. He traveled through the Middle East and at the end of his journey still indicated that he could find nothing redeeming about the said region. He disagreed with America’s move to transfer its fortune to North Africa. He did not support the government’s idea of buying oil and perfume rather than purchasing gun batteries from the pirates in the North Africa region. In Africa, Eaton’s and Jefferson’s goals aligned because they both wanted to conquer the Barbary. During this era, the US managed to humble a Middle Eastern ruler, a factor that earned it pride and freedom of trade.
Lastly, Oren talks about the role that powder and balls played in the establishment of the American identity. The era that he describes is characterized by the period that followed after America’s initial success in Africa. The Chesapeake defeated the American navy, a factor that impacted the nation’s pride negatively. Algiers tried to exploit America’s disadvantage, and America’s retaliation actions were weakened by the start of the war against Britain. Nonetheless, the war against Britain threatened both America’s security and its unity. Regardless, America continued to wage war against the Barbary and their victory transformed their image to both the Britons and themselves.
In my opinion, the story told in the article is one highlighting America’s historical achievements and shortcomings that shaped it to become the great nation it is today. America’s identity was created through a series of victories and losses. America faced hostility and was also hostile to other nations. It made allies and made enemies, all of which are aspects that define its identity today. Without the historical path that America took, its identity would never have become what it is today.
