Final answer:
The statement is true. The Naval Act of 1794 was established to address the threat of Barbary pirates in the Mediterranean.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'The new navy was established due to the threat of Barbary pirates in the Mediterranean, leading to the Naval Act of 1794' is true. The Naval Act of 1794 was established to address the threat of Barbary pirates in the Mediterranean.
The Barbary pirates, operating primarily from ports in North Africa, were a significant threat to American merchant ships in the late 18th century. These pirates regularly attacked American vessels, captured their crews, and demanded ransom for their release. To address this threat, the United States government passed the Naval Act of 1794, which authorized the construction of six frigates for the new navy to protect American interests and trade in the Mediterranean.