Question

What became known as the XYZ affair involved which of the following?

• A. French ministers demanding bribes before opening up negotiations with American diplomats.
• B. Rumors of Thomas Jefferson's long-standing relationship with a slave of his.
• C. The refusal of government officials to leave office when John Adams wished to replace them.
• D. A scandal where the Secretary of War Henry Knox was accused of taking bribes.
• E. English efforts to ensure the Jay Treaty was ratified by attempting to influence key senators.

Answer 1

The correct option is A French ministers demanding bribes before opening up negotiations with American diplomats.

The XYZ Affair was a series of diplomatic events that involved the U.S. and France during the late 1790s and was one of the most pressing issues during John Adams’ presidency. This incident resulted in an undeclared war known as the Quasi-War. Peace was restored with the Convention of 1800 also known as the Treaty of Mortefontaine.