Why did Adams increase the size of the American navy? (1 point) Responses He wanted to prepare for all-out war on Britain. He wanted to prepare for all-out war on Britain. He hoped it would deter more attacks by French ships. He hoped it would deter more attacks by French ships. He needed to use tax money to fund an increase in military spending. He needed to use tax money to fund an increase in military spending. Congress passed a law that required him to increase support for the navy. Congress passed a law that required him to increase support for the navy.

1 answer

There are several possible reasons why Adams increased the size of the American navy. It is important to note that John Adams was the second president of the United States and served from 1797 to 1801.

1) He wanted to prepare for all-out war on Britain: At the time, tensions between the United States and Britain were high, particularly due to issues such as trade restrictions and impressment of American sailors. By expanding the navy, Adams may have hoped to strengthen the country's military capabilities and be better prepared for a potential conflict with Britain.

2) He hoped it would deter more attacks by French ships: During Adams' presidency, the United States was also experiencing frequent attacks on its merchant ships by French privateers. By increasing the navy, Adams may have believed that it would serve as a deterrent and protect American ships from further attacks.

3) He needed to use tax money to fund an increase in military spending: Adams faced challenges in funding the military and navy, as the country's finances were not in a strong position. Increasing support for the navy could have been a way for Adams to allocate tax money towards military spending and strengthen the country's defenses.

4) Congress passed a law that required him to increase support for the navy: It is possible that Adams faced pressure from Congress to bolster the navy. If Congress had passed a law demanding increased support for the navy, Adams would have been required to take action accordingly.

It is worth noting that these reasons are not mutually exclusive, and it is possible that Adams may have been influenced by a combination of factors when making the decision to increase the size of the American navy.