Question

Which of the following is the best explanation of the XYZ affair that took place during John Adam's presidency? Group of answer choices

A) Adams tried to purchase three naval ships (X, Y, and Z) from France, but France demanded much more money than the ships were worth, and Adams rejected the offer.
B). Adams arrested three French pirates (X, Y, and Z) who had seized American ships and millions of dollars in cargo, and then made a deal with the French for their release in exchange for a peace treaty.
C). Adams promoted the idea of creating a committee of three diplomats (X, Y, and Z) from America, France, and Great Britain to meet and discuss ways each nation could assist one another.
D). Adams tried to promote peace with France, but three French officials (X, Y, and Z) demanded a two hundred and fifty thousand dollar bribe before they would even speak with Americans.

Answer 1

The XYZ Affair involved French officials demanding a bribe from American negotiators sent by President John Adams in a failed attempt to ease tensions between the two nations.

Step-by-step explanation:

The XYZ Affair was a significant diplomatic incident that occurred during John Adams's presidency. The best explanation of the XYZ Affair is option D: Adams tried to promote peace with France, but three French officials (X, Y, and Z) demanded a two hundred and fifty thousand dollar bridge before they would even speak with Americans.

Hoping to repair the relationship with France, Adams sent dignitaries Charles Pinckney, John Marshall, and Elbridge Gerry to negotiate in Paris. However, they were approached by agents of French Foreign Minister Talleyrand, who demanded an apology from Adams for his anti-French statements, payment of debts, and a substantial loan as a bribe for Talleyrand's personal use.

The American negotiators refused these terms, leading to a breakdown in discussions and mounting tensions that contributed to the Quasi-War between the United States and France.