Final answer:
Edmond Genet appealed to the American people to back France in its war with Britain, an action initially supported by Jefferson but later leading to diplomatic tensions with Washington's administration requesting Genet's recall.
Step-by-step explanation:
Edmond Genet, the French ambassador, initially found support from Thomas Jefferson in his appeal to the American people for backing France in its war with Britain. However, Genet's actions, including the Little Democrat incident, posed a challenge to American neutrality. As Genet attempted to influence public opinion directly, Washington's administration, led by President George Washington, became increasingly concerned about the potential erosion of American policy and neutrality.
In response to Genet's actions, which risked undermining diplomatic relations and the U.S. stance of neutrality, Washington's administration made the decision to request Genet's recall. This move was essential to preserve the United States' position and maintain diplomatic equilibrium with European powers. The Genet affair highlighted the delicate balance the young nation sought to maintain in navigating the conflicts and alliances of European powers while safeguarding its own interests and neutrality.