1. The Presidency of John Adams
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2. John Adams
John Adams was “the only founding president not to have owned slaves.
He took the lead in banning slavery in Massachusetts before he became President.

3. Problems with France France and England were at war with one another
France looks to America to honor its alliance made during the Revolution
Wants US to declare war against Britain
France angered by US neutrality
France attacks US ships in the Atlantic

4. XYZ Affair
3 French ministers demand a $250,000 bribe to begin peace negotiations
American negotiators refuse to pay
3 French ministers were referred to as X, Y, & Z
US outraged by the French demand for bribery

5. Quasi- War with France
Adams request Congress increase the size of army & rebuild the navy
Quasi War fought entirely on the sea between US & French ships ( )
Adams & Napoleon reach an agreement ending the Quasi War

6. Alien and Sedition Acts
4 laws passed by Congress and signed into law by John Adams
Took 14 years to become a citizen
President could deport “dangerous” non-Americans
President could arrest any “dangerous” non-American during wartime
Made it a crime to write anything scandalous or malicious about the government

7. Reaction to Alien and Sedition Acts
Under Jefferson’s guidance Virginia & Kentucky Resolution is passed.
States can nullify any federal law if it oversteps it authority