A diplomatic incident between French and American diplomats that occurred in 1797. It involved American envoys being approached by French intermediaries who demanded bribes and a loan before formal negotiations could begin. The goal was to influence diplomatic actions.
This event significantly strained relations between the United States and France, leading to an undeclared naval war known as the Quasi-War. It fueled anti-French sentiment in America, strengthened the Federalist Party, and contributed to the passage of the Alien and Sedition Acts. Its impact lies in shaping early American foreign policy and domestic political divisions.