Quasi-War

The Quasi-War was an undeclared naval war fought from 1798 to 1800 between the United States and France, primarily in the Caribbean and off the East Coast of the United States. It grew out of the XYZ affair and during the early governance of President John Adams.

Summary of the Quasi-War

The Quasi War with France was an undeclared naval war that took place between 1798 and 1800. It took place under the watch of President John Adams, and it was the result of political disagreements over treaties the United States had signed with France and Britain. The French started harassing American ships on the seas, so Adams sent a delegation to negotiate a treaty. Instead, the French negotiators demanded the United States pay a bribe before they would start negotiations. This scandal, known as the XYZ Affair, outraged Americans and led to the popular slogan “Millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute.” Congress responded by establishing the United States Navy on April 30, 1798.

The small American fleet, under the leadership of Thomas Truxton, quickly established itself as a significant naval force by winning several key battles. While the Quasi-War raged, Napoleon came to power in France and he wanted a better relationship with the United States. The two nations negotiated at the Convention of 1800 and agreed to the Treaty of Mortefontaine, which ended the Quasi War and restored the political and economic relationship between the two nations.