The Alabama Claims Commission was established in 1871 to resolve claims made by the United States against Great Britain. These claims arose from damages caused by the British-built Confederate warship, the CSS Alabama, during the American Civil War. The commission aimed to address grievances related to the destruction of American merchant ships and the loss of lives. The commission consisted of representatives from both nations and was tasked with evaluating and compensating the affected parties. Ultimately, the commission awarded the United States $15.5 million, which helped to settle lingering tensions between the two countries following the war.