Chesapeake–Leopard Affair

The Chesapeake–Leopard Affair is a naval engagement that occurrs off the coast of Norfolk, Virginia, on June 22, 1807, between the British warship HMS Leopard and American frigate USS Chesapeake, when the crew of the Leopard pursues, attacks and boards the American frigate looking for deserters from the British Navy.

The Chesapeake is caught off guard and in a state of unpreparedness and after a short battle involving broadsides from the Leopard, her commander James Barron surrenders his vessel to the British after firing only one shot.

Four crew members are removed from the American vessel and are tried for desertion, one of whom is subsequently hanged.

The Chesapeake is allowed to return home where James Barron is court martialed and suspended from command.The Chesapeake–Leopard Affair creates uproar among Americans and strident calls for war with Great Britain, but these quickly subside.

President Thomas Jefferson initially attempts to use this widespread bellicosity to diplomatically threaten the British government into settling the matter.

The United States Congress backs away from armed conflict when British envoys show no contrition whatsoever for the Chesapeake outrage and delivered proclamations reaffirming impressment.

Jefferson's political failure to coerce Great Britain leads him towards economic warfare: the Embargo Act of 1807.

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