1790s Foreign Policy and Jay's Treaty

Overview

• The focus in the 1790s was on foreign policy rather than domestic issues.
• The U.S. needed to define its international role and prove it could protect itself and its assets.

Neutrality Proclamation of 1793

• Issued by Washington to avoid involvement in European conflicts, particularly the French Revolution.
• The French Revolution had become a radical and violent affair.
• The U.S. declared neutrality to avoid choosing sides but continued trading, except in war material.

War Material

• Defined as anything used for waging or supporting a war.
• Included guns, ammunition, and materials like iron and steel.

British Violations of American Neutrality

Maritime Issues

• Britain ignored American neutrality by stopping U.S. ships and seizing cargo.
• They engaged in impressment, kidnapping American sailors to serve in the British Navy.
• Both Britain and France wanted full trade, leading to violations.

Northwest Indian War

• The British armed and encouraged native attacks on U.S. settlers.
• They operated from forts on American soil, violating the Treaty of Paris (1783).

Jay's Treaty

• Negotiated by John Jay to address British violations.
• Washington did not trust Jefferson to negotiate due to his pro-French stance.

Key Points of Jay's Treaty

1. Britain agreed to remove troops from American soil.
2. U.S. gained 'most favored nation' status with Britain.

• The treaty did not address issues of neutral trade or impressment.
• Seen as a failure by both the Federalists and Democratic Republicans.

Political Impact

• The treaty prevented a likely disastrous war with Britain.
• Washington faced heavy criticism, affecting his popularity.
• It was pivotal in forming political parties, with Federalists supporting it and Democratic Republicans opposing it.

Consequences

• Highlighted divisions within the country.
• Set the stage for future conflicts and policies regarding international relationships.

Conclusion

• The treaty averted war but fomented internal political divisions.
• Impressment was temporarily reduced, but not formally halted, setting the stage for future tensions.

Looking Forward

• The lecture ends with a segue into the subsequent presidency and its implications for U.S. foreign policy.