Where was the Stars and Stripes first raised in the Eastern Hemisphere?

The Stars and Stripes was first raised in the Eastern Hemisphere at the Shores of Tripoli during the early 19th century. This event took place during the First Barbary War (1801-1805), when U.S. Marines were involved in operations against the Barbary pirates who were threatening American commerce. The raising of the flag at Tripoli symbolized a significant moment in U.S. military history as it marked the first instance of the American flag being displayed in a foreign land, indicating the United States' willingness to assert its presence abroad and protect its interests.

This event, often associated with the Marine Corps hymn "To the Shores of Tripoli," highlights the role of U.S. forces in establishing a military presence overseas and demonstrates early American efforts to combat piracy, which was a serious issue affecting merchant ships. The historical context underscores the significance of this flag-raising ceremony as it represented America's developing naval power and the burgeoning role of the U.S. military in international affairs.