This historical essay provides an in-depth analysis of the life and career of Stephen Decatur, one of the most important American naval figures of the early 19th century. Smith focuses on Decatur's role in the suppression of piracy in the Mediterranean and evaluates the impact of his actions on American diplomacy and international relations. Drawing on a wealth of primary sources, Smith offers a nuanced and insightful portrait of a complex and charismatic figure in American history.

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