John Adams President

Foreign Affairs

Election of 1796

Problems with France

France had interfered in US policy and interrupted trade.

When Adams became President anti-French feelings are running high.

France viewed Jay’s Treaty as US support of Great Britain against France

Waited on election results to act. Adams, perceived to be Pro-British

Quasi War with FranceBackground

In retribution France seizes American ships headed to English ports and says Americans captured aboard British Naval vessels be hanged

Within 1 year they had attacked more than 300 American vessels.

Quasi War: Undeclared war at sea with France

Arch-Federalists beat the drum of war

“May he, like Samson, slay thousands of Frenchman with the jawbone of a Jefferson” Popular Toast

To avoid war Adams sends a peace commission to France

The Peace Commission

John Marshall, Charles C. Pinckney, Elbridge Gerry

The French Foreign Minister Talleyrand sent 3 agents to meet with the commission

The agents offer a treaty but want a bribe of $250,000 and a $10,000,000 loan to be paid Talleyrand

The XYZ Affair

The event became public and the agents soliciting the bribe became known by the letters XY and Z.

America is furious at the actions of the French

Popular Slogan arose “Millions for defense, but not one cent for

tribute!”

Maiden America Ravaged by the French

Refusing the Paris Monster

War is Imminent?

Adams considered asking Congress to declare war against France

Soon France wanted to meet with the Americans because France was at war with England

Convention of 1800 America and France agreed on terms for peace.

Adams Victory

Kept United States out of a declared war with France. “here lies John Adams who took upon himself the responsibility of the peace with France in the year 1800” Adams wanted these words on his gravestone