The French Revolution lasted from 1789 until 1799. The Revolution precipitated a series of European wars, forcing the United States to articulate a clear policy of neutrality in order to avoid being embroiled in these European conflicts. The French Revolution also influenced U.S. politics, as pro- and anti- Revolutionary factions sought to influence American domestic and foreign policy.
The U.S. did not want to get involved in the European wars connected to the French Revolution so it decided to have a clear policy of
Think back to what we know about France during the American Revolution. Why might the French be upset with the U.S. policy towards Europe?
When the first rumors of political change in France reached American shores in 1789, the U.S. public was largely enthusiastic. Americans hoped for democratic reforms that would solidify the existing Franco-American alliance and transform France into a republican ally against aristocratic and monarchical Britain. However, with revolutionary change also came political instability, violence, and calls for radical social change in France that frightened many Americans.
Most Americans were completely against the French Revolution from the very start.
From 1790 to 1794, the French Revolution became increasingly radical. After French King Louis XVI was tried and executed on January 21, 1793, war between France and monarchal nations Great Britain and Spain was inevitable. These two powers joined Austria and other European nations in the war against Revolutionary France that had already started in 1791. The United States remained neutral, as both political parties saw that war would lead to economic disaster and the possibility of invasion.
What were the two main reasons why the U.S. decided to stay neutral after wars broke out in Europe as a result of the French Revolution?
For what reason did many Americans support the French Revolution at the beginning?
Why did many Americans ultimately become fearful during the French Revolution?