They outline the terms for a perpetual treaty as set forth by the Tripolitan ambassador. His suggestion was that considerable inconvenience and expense could be avoided by accepting a perpetual treaty. When asked why the Barbary States considered the United States their enemy, he replied that their religion requires them to make war upon all non-believers, and that any Moslem killed in such a war w ould go to Paradise. Commissioners informed the minister they would have to report to Congress the extent of his demands, as they had no authority to treat for such a sum. Suggest money may be available as a loan in Holland.
Subjects
United States--History--1783-1865; Jay, John, 1745-1829