Citizen Genet Affair Overview

Questions and Answers

What did the Genet Affair cause?

Increase US tensions with France

What was the scandal involving Edmond Charles Genet?

He toured the country fundraising for the American Revolution

He insulted George Washington and toured giving anti-British speeches (correct)

He was welcomed by the President without any issues

He was deported immediately upon arrival

What were the effects of the Genet Affair?

Increases tensions with France and federalists vs. Dem Reps

Democratic Republicans were represented as ______ and atheists.

<p>radicals</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happened when Jefferson resigned in 1793?

<p>He resigned in politics but returned to work behind the scenes with the Dem Reps</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Citizen Genet Affair Overview

Increased tensions between the United States and France during the 1790s.
The episode highlighted political divisions within the US, particularly between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans.

Genet's Mission

Edmond Charles Genet was sent by France to America to fundraise for the French Revolution.
Ignored protocol by not going directly to President Washington; instead, he conducted a nationwide speaking tour against Great Britain.
Genet’s public comments offended George Washington, prompting him to seek a meeting.

Washington’s Response

Washington felt insulted by Genet’s arrogance during their meeting.
Attempted to deport Genet due to diplomatic breaches in conduct.
Compassion for Genet’s fate during the Reign of Terror in France ultimately led Washington to allow him to remain in the US.

Political Fallout

The affair heightened tensions between pro-French Democratic-Republicans and Federalists.
Federalists accused Democratic-Republicans of being too sympathetic to the French Revolution and supporting Genet.

Partisan Media Influence

Differing media portrayals intensified political divisions; Democratic-Republicans were often labeled as radical and atheistic.
Federalists were portrayed as authoritarian and aligned with British interests.
Media battles reflected the broader ideological conflicts of the time.

Jefferson's Resignation

Thomas Jefferson resigned from his role in the cabinet in 1793 due to mounting tensions.
Although he stepped away from politics, he continued to influence the Democratic-Republican party from behind the scenes.

Description

This quiz explores the Citizen Genet Affair, a significant event that heightened tensions between the United States and France during the 1790s. It examines Genet's mission, Washington's response, and the political fallout between Federalists and Democratic-Republicans. Test your knowledge of this pivotal moment in American history!