First Barbary War (1801–05), conflict between the United States and Tripoli (now in Libya), incited by American refusal to continue payment of tribute to the piratical rulers of the North African Barbary States of Algiers, Tunis, Morocco, and Tripoli.
Seizing captives, dating back to Julius Caesar in ancient times, has been a cost-effective tactic in conflicts well into the 21st century. Amid the human dramas, it forces swaps, payouts, and policy shifts, evident again in Israel’s deal with Hamas.