it hurt his chances for re-election
It hurt his chance for reelection.
Federalists were shocked by President John Adams' decision to resume peace talks with France because they had been advocating for a strong military response to what they perceived as French aggression during the Quasi-War. Many Federalists feared that negotiating peace would undermine their party's stance against France and potentially weaken the United States' position in international affairs. Adams' move was seen as a betrayal by some in his party, who believed that military action was necessary to assert American strength and maintain political dominance. Ultimately, this decision contributed to a rift within the Federalist Party and diminished Adams' support among its members.
Federalists were shocked by President John Adams's decision to pursue peace rather than continue military conflict with France during the Quasi-War. Many in the Federalist Party believed that a strong military response was necessary to assert American strength and protect national interests. Adams’s diplomatic approach was seen as a betrayal of the party’s aggressive stance and threatened to shift the political landscape, as it could undermine their support among constituents who favored military action. This choice ultimately contributed to divisions within the Federalist Party and impacted Adams's political standing.
John Adams
During what's known as the XYZ Affair, President Adams sent diplomats to France for the purpose of attempting to negotiate peace with France. The end result was the Treaty of Mortefontaine.
Sending a peace mission to France brought the full fury of the Hamiltonians against Adams. In the campaign of 1800 the Republicans were united and effective, the Federalists badly divided.
Sending a peace mission to France brought the full fury of the Hamiltonians against Adams. In the campaign of 1800 the Republicans were united and effective, the Federalists badly divided.
Sending a peace mission to France brought the full fury of the Hamiltonians against Adams. In the campaign of 1800 the Republicans were united and effective, the Federalists badly divided.
Napoleon Bonaparte
"I desire no other inscription over my gravestone than:'Here lies John Adams, who took upon himself the responsibility of peace with France in the year 1800.'"
Adams pursued peace with France following the XYZ affair because he believed it was in the best interest of the United States. He wanted to avoid war and maintain positive relations with France, which was a powerful European nation. Adams also hoped that by negotiating a peaceful resolution, he could prevent further damage to American trade and maritime interests.
Treaty of Mortefontaine