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1798

Definition

1798 refers to the year when the Alien and Sedition Acts were passed. It was a time of political tension between the Federalists and Democratic-Republicans, with concerns about foreign influence on American society.

Analogy

Think of 1798 as a boiling pot of soup. The heat is turned up high, causing bubbles to rise to the surface as different ingredients clash together. This represents the political tension and conflicts that arose during this year.

Related terms

XYZ Affair: A diplomatic incident in which French agents demanded bribes from American diplomats in exchange for negotiations, leading to increased tensions between France and the United States.

Quasi-War: An undeclared naval war fought between the United States and France from 1798 to 1800 due to disagreements over trade and alliances.

Virginia & Kentucky Resolutions: Political statements drafted by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison in response to the Alien and Sedition Acts, asserting states' rights against federal authority.