Anglo-Algerian War (1677-1682) Explained

Conflict:Anglo–Algerian War (1677–1682)
Date:1677–1682
Place:Mediterranean Sea
Result:Algerian victory
Combatant1: Regency of Algiers
Combatant2: Kingdom of England
Commander1: Mohammed Trik
Commander2: Charles II
Strength1:Unknown
Strength2:Unknown
Casualties1:Unknown
Casualties2:350 ships
5,000–6,000 sailors captured

The Anglo-Algerian War took place between 1677 and 1682 after the English destroyed some Algerian privateers near Bougie.

Background

The War happened when the English navy destroyed some of Algerian privateers near Bougie in 1672, the Algerian Diwan responded by capturing sailors and ships between 1674 and 1676. In 1677, Algiers Declared War on England.[1]

War

Between 1674 and 1682, the Mediterranean witnessed a series of devastating raids by Algerian corsairs that left a lasting impact on Anglo-Algerian relations. During this eight-year period, Algerian corsairs managed to capture a staggering 350 English ships[2] and hold an estimated 5,000 to 6,000 English sailors[2] in captivity. The English could no longer continue with this war so they capitulated, a somber testament to the relentless threat posed by Barbary piracy and the vulnerability of English maritime interests in the Mediterranean. The culmination of these events would eventually lead to the signing of the Treaty of 1682, where King Charles II reluctantly acknowledged the plight of British subjects as slaves of the Algerians.

Aftermath

In 1682, representatives of Algiers and England signed a treaty that included a humiliating provision where King Charles II recognized that British subjects were slaves of the Algerians.[3] [4] This acknowledgment underscored the vulnerability of English citizens in the Mediterranean sea.[4]

Notes and References

  1. Book: Europe Through Arab Eyes, 1578-1727. Nabil I. Matar. 2009. 77. 9780231141949.
  2. Book: A Handbook for Travellers in Algeria. John Murray. 1873. 57.
  3. Book: Articles of Peace between Charles II and the City and Kingdom of Algiers. T. Allen. 1664. 7.
  4. Book: The United Service Volume 2. L.R. Hamersly & Company. 1880. 587.