Final answer:
The rallying cry against the XYZ Affair was "Millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute," expressing the American public's refusal to be bribed and maintaining national honor.
Step-by-step explanation:
The famous rallying cry that emerged in response to the XYZ Affair during John Adams's presidency was "Millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute." This expression captured the American public's indignation at the French diplomats', referred to as X, Y, and Z, demands for a significant loan (Dutch currency) and a £50,000 bribe as preconditions for negotiations.
The outcry was a direct consequence of the widespread perception that American honor was at stake, and it led to the erosion of pro-French sentiments within the United States, causing a rise in popularity for the Federalist Party and diving the nation into more profound partisan politics.
The revelation that France had attempted to extract a bribe from American diplomats prior to even commencing discussions over a potential treaty was disclosed to Congress by President Adams, which caused a significant public uproar.
The incident known as the XYZ Affair markedly turned public opinion against France and led to what is known as the Quasi-War, an undeclared naval conflict between the United States and France.