Lecture Notes: Jay's Treaty (1795)

Introduction

• The lecture covers the Treaty of Amity, Commerce, and Navigation, commonly known as Jay's Treaty.
• Signed between the United States and Great Britain in 1795.
• Aim: To regulate relations post-American Revolution.

Historical Context

• During Washington's first term, the U.S. traded with both Great Britain and France, benefiting from neutrality.
• Disruptions:
  • 1792: Issues begin with British actions.
  • 1793: Britain blockades France, affecting U.S. trade.
  • Britain captures American ships and impresses sailors.

Political Divisions

• Federalists:
  • Led by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and supported by George Washington.
  • Pro-British, focusing on resolving trade and military issues.
• Jeffersonian Democratic Republicans:
  • Led by Madison.
  • Pro-French, emphasizing American values of democracy and freedom.

Key Issues Pre-Treaty

• British soldiers still in forts on U.S. soil (Treaty of Paris, 1783 unfulfilled).
• Desire to open trade channels with British West Indies.
• Border issues with Canada.
• Allegations of British supplying arms to Native Americans.
• Southern states seeking compensation for lost slaves during the Revolution.

British Position

• At war with France, prioritizing self-interest.
• Want to secure American trade support.

Treaty Details

1. International Arbitration:
   • First instance of international arbitration.
   • U.S. gains $12 million for merchant ship losses.
   • U.S. pays $600,000 for pre-1775 debts.
2. British Promises:
   • Agreed to vacate forts by June 1796.
   • Most Favored Nation trade status granted.
3. Trade Restrictions:
   • U.S. aligns with British maritime policies, restricting trade with France.
4. Native American Arms:
   • Agreement to stop supplying arms.
5. West Indies Trade:
   • Limited access granted.

Unresolved Issues

• Continued impressment of American sailors.
• No compensation for Southern losses.

Political Impact

• Creation of the first party system in the U.S.
• Federalist vs. Democratic-Republican newspapers battle for public opinion.
• Treaty barely passes in Senate due to George Washington's influence.
• Democratic Republicans argue against colonial ties, naval impressment, and Native American arms.

Aftermath and Legacy

• Madison's opposition leads to attempts to move treaty approval to the House.
• Influences the 1796 election, leading to Federalist power under John Adams.
• Jefferson does not renew treaty, contributing to War of 1812.
• Allowed U.S. to strengthen economically and militarily in the interim.

Conclusion

• Jay's Treaty postponed conflict, aiding U.S. development.
• Served as a temporary measure before the War of 1812.
• Highlights the importance of strategic diplomacy and internal political unity.