Barron James
an American naval officer, born in Virginia in 1769; became Lieutenant in the navy in 1798, and was soon promoted to Captain. He commanded the "Chesapeake" in 1807, and was attacked by the British ship "Leopard" as a result of his refusal to allow the "Chesapeake" to be searched for deserters. The "Chesapeake," which was quite unprepared, discharged one gun previous to striking her colors. She was captured and three alleged deserters were found. Barron was court-martialed and suspended for five years. Upon his restoration, as the outcome of a long correspondence with his personal enemy, Commodore Decatur, a duel was fought and Decatur was killed. Barron became senior officer in the navy in 1839, and died in Norfolk, Va., April 21, 1851.