The XYZ Affair outraged many Americans. What was President John Adams’s initial stance on how to handle the issue? Select all that apply.

Question

(1 point)
Responses

Adams asked Congress for a vote to declare war on France.
Adams asked Congress for a vote to declare war on France.

Adams sent diplomats to negotiate with France.
Adams sent diplomats to negotiate with France.

Adams wanted to declare war, but resisted due to political pressures.
Adams wanted to declare war, but resisted due to political pressures.

Adams wanted to stay out of European affairs

Answer 1

President John Adams’s initial stance on how to handle the XYZ Affair included the following:

• Adams sent diplomats to negotiate with France.
• Adams wanted to stay out of European affairs.

He was cautious about escalating tensions and preferred diplomacy over military action. While there was pressure for a war declaration, he ultimately sought to avoid conflict.