Sidi Soliman Mellimelli, Bey Hammouda Pasha’s envoy, arrives in the United States to negotiate a better peace. The Tunisian envoy was the first Muslim diplomatic envoy ever sent to the U.S. During his stay, President Thomas Jefferson organized the first-ever White House Iftar dinner, on December 9, 1805. That tradition continues until this day.
Sidi Soliman Mellimelli to James Madison, March 8, 1806
Sidi Soliman Mellimelli (Tunisian, dates unknown), Sidi Soliman Mellimelli, Ambassador &c. to the Secretary of State, 1806 [March 8]
Hand-written letter
Tobias Lear Papers · University of Michigan, William L. Clements Library
