Originally published in 1972, Christopher McKee’s biography of Edward Preble remains the most authoritative source on this influential early shaper of the U.S. naval tradition. McKee documents Preble’s rise from obscurity to become Thomas Jefferson’s chief administrator. He chronicles the officer’s relationship with Jefferson and outlines the president’s policies and strategies during the Barbary Wars. McKee also brings to light the Tripolitan activities and attitudes that confronted Preble as he sought to bring the war to an end.