HistoryCentral Presents History Run

An interactive journey through American history — from the creators of HistoryCentral’s trusted history apps.

HistoryCentral · Primary Source & History

XYZ Affair

> > > > 1797 XYZ Affair

1797- XYZ Affair

President Adams sent three envoys to France to negotiate a new agreement. French Minister Talleyrand demanded a personal bribe of $250,000 and loan of $12 million dollars to France. When word of the affair became public, the American people were incensed. They demanded war with France. Adams refrained from declaring war, but a quasi-war took place for two years..