What was the XYZ Affair and its effect on U.S. policy?

• A. The signing of the Monroe Doctrine.
• B. A diplomatic incident with France leading to a quasi-war and increased support for a stronger Navy.
• C. The purchase of Florida from Spain.
• D. A war with Britain over impressment.

Answer: (B)

The XYZ Affair was a diplomatic incident with France in 1797–1798 in which French agents demanded bribes to even start talks about French seizures of American ships. The public outcry at these demands turned American opinion sharply against France and pushed the United States toward a more assertive foreign policy. That shift helped trigger an undeclared naval conflict, known as the Quasi-War, and it spurred a major expansion and modernization of the U.S. Navy and defenses. In short, it was a clash that moved U.S. policy from cautious diplomacy toward stronger naval power and readiness to protect American interests on the seas.