XYZ Affair

Definition

The XYZ Affair was a diplomatic incident that occurred in the late 1790s involving a confrontation between the United States and France. The affair arose when American diplomats were approached by French agents, who demanded bribes in exchange for negotiating an end to French attacks on American shipping. This incident heightened tensions between the two nations and significantly influenced U.S. foreign policy during the presidencies of John Adams and George Washington.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The XYZ Affair began in 1797 when President John Adams sent diplomats to France to negotiate peace after French privateers began attacking American ships.
2. Three French agents, referred to as X, Y, and Z in documents, demanded substantial bribes from the American diplomats before any negotiations could begin.
3. The outrage over the demands for bribes fueled anti-French sentiment in the United States and led to calls for military action against France.
4. As a result of the XYZ Affair, Congress authorized the expansion of the navy, leading to the creation of a stronger maritime defense.
5. The incident played a significant role in shaping American political discourse, ultimately benefiting the Federalist Party due to its emphasis on national security.

Review Questions

• How did the XYZ Affair impact U.S.-France relations during the late 1790s?
  • The XYZ Affair significantly deteriorated U.S.-France relations by revealing French hostility towards American shipping and prompting widespread outrage among Americans. The demand for bribes from French agents ignited calls for war and solidified a sense of nationalism. As a result, the United States prepared for military action, which contributed to the Quasi-War, an undeclared conflict that further strained diplomatic ties between the two nations.
• Analyze how the XYZ Affair influenced domestic politics in the United States at the time.
  • The XYZ Affair had a profound impact on domestic politics by intensifying divisions between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans. Federalists used the incident to advocate for a strong military and assertive foreign policy, while Democratic-Republicans criticized what they viewed as excessive militarism. The affair also played a crucial role in fostering an environment that led to the passage of the Alien and Sedition Acts, reflecting heightened fears of foreign influence and dissent within the country.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of the XYZ Affair on American foreign policy.
  • The long-term consequences of the XYZ Affair established a precedent for a more assertive U.S. foreign policy in international diplomacy. It illustrated the willingness of American leaders to confront foreign aggression and prioritize national sovereignty over appeasement. The experience gained during this conflict influenced future diplomatic engagements and reinforced a sense of national identity that shaped America’s approach to international relations throughout its history.

Related terms

Quasi-War: An undeclared naval conflict between the United States and France that lasted from 1798 to 1800, primarily fought at sea as a result of tensions stemming from the XYZ Affair.

Alien and Sedition Acts: A series of laws passed in 1798 that aimed to strengthen national security during the Quasi-War, which included measures that limited immigration and restricted speech critical of the government.

Diplomacy: The practice of conducting negotiations between representatives of states, which plays a crucial role in managing international relations and resolving conflicts.