Ottoman Algeria in Western Diplomatic History with ... - Bibliothèque

But the events that unfolded at its arrival at Algiers proved to be contrary to
American expectations. 26
The Dey then was in need of a ship to carry the usual presents to the
Sultan at Constantinople and the American battleship happened to be there. 27
So, he summoned O’Brien and informed him that “he would want this ship as a
favor from the United States” and explained that “other nations had rendered
Algiers the like favors.” 28 O’Brien and William Bainbridge, captain of the ship,
objected to the Deys’ demand on the ground that they had no orders on the
subject, had no diplomatic relations with the Ottoman Empire, and that they
could not protect the cargo against Algiers’ enemies and French attacks—the
USA was at war with France. The Dey, in the presence of the British consul
John Falcon, made them understand that the practice was customary; 29 that they
“had no alternative but to do him this favor” which the two Americans
interpreted as a “go per force.” 30 A tedious argument followed about which
flag to be hoisted—American or Algerine? why? and where?—at the main
mast or at the fore?—which shows two utterly different approaches to the
significance of ‘flag’ in national cultures. 31 Ultimately, the George Washington
26 Wright and Macleod, First Americans, p. 71.
27 For an idea about how Americans by a few twists to the historical truth turn a small incident into an
odyssey see Tucker, Dawn Like Thunder, pp. 11-41.
28 A detailed description about the proceedings appears in a long letter O’Brien wrote to William
Bainbridge, captain of the frigate. ASP/FA, 2:353-4, Copy of a letter from Mr. O’Brien to Captain
Bainbridge, October 9, 1800.
29 ASP/FA, 2:353-4, Copy of a letter from Mr. O’Brien to Captain Bainbridge, October 9, 1800. Indeed
the British consul suggested to the Dey to wait for the battleship of His Majesty which was on its way
to carry the Algerine ambassador with presents to Constantinople.
30 Ibid.
31 Ibid.
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