Adams Presidency

Adams Presidency (1797-1801) Poor relations with France The French Conflict’s domestic impact Lame Duckness

Poor Relations with France Jay’s Treaty angered French XYZ Affair Undeclared Naval War occurs

Quasi War Adams creates a Navy and re-creates the Marines. Military orders uniforms and prepares for war Adams chooses a diplomatic approach and avoids war Federalists are angry about the peaceful resolution Anti-French sentiment will cost him the next election.

Alien and Sedition Acts Naturalization Act Changed from 5 to 14 years residency requirement for citizenship Alien Act president can expel dangerous aliens at discretion Alien Enemy Act During war, president can expel or imprison enemy aliens Sedition Act Conspiracy Certain freedoms of speech are restricted

Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions Written against the Alien and Sedition Acts Penned by Madison and Jefferson Constitution as Compact theory Federalism – nation preexisted the states State-centered federalism – states preexisted the nation

Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions States can Nullify the laws of Congress States can interpose their judgment on Congressional Acts

Nullification Logical extreme allows a state to disobey actions of Congress Secession is the only alternative if Congress doesn’t comply Highlights very different ways you can complain about actions you perceive to be unlawful or unconstitutional

Lame Duckness Presidential Succession took place in March. Federalists big losers in 1800 election Judiciary Act of 1801 passed John Marshall named Chief Justice Jefferson wins!