How did the xyz affair begin?

Answer 1

In 1797, there was a diplomatic incident between America and France. France was in a difficult position and asked America for help. George Washington wanted neutrality but also did not want a sour relationship with France. So John Adams had sent three American diplomats to France in hopes of reaching a friendly accord. Talleyrand was a French diplomat who had refused to see the three Americans and chose Officer X, Officer Y, and Officer Z to talk to the Americans instead. He suggested that if the Americans want to work things out they should pay a bribe. The XYZ affair led to the "quasi-war." Although the Americans were close to have come officially close to war with the French, Adams had never declared war.