The Works of John Adams, 2nd President of the United States VOL 4 of 10 - Charles Francis Adams
John Adams President
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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