The Jay Treaty and Its Impact on US-British Relations

The Jay Treaty, effective from 29 February 1796, facilitated ten years of peaceful trade between the US and Britain. Negotiated by John Jay, it aimed to resolve post-Revolutionary War disputes, settle British debts, and establish trade relations. It also addressed boundary issues with British Canada, British forts on US soil, and maritime rights. Despite not fully resolving these issues, it laid a framework for future negotiations. The treaty faced opposition in the US, highlighting partisan divisions between Federalists and Jeffersonian Republicans, but was supported by President Washington to maintain peace during the French Revolutionary Wars.

What was the primary purpose of the Jay Treaty when it came into force in 1796?

• To declare war on Britain

• To establish peaceful trade between the United States and Britain

• To form a military alliance with France

• To annex British territories

Who was the chief negotiator for the United States in the Jay Treaty?

• Benjamin Franklin

• Thomas Jefferson

• Alexander Hamilton

• John Jay

What was one of the key objectives of the Jay Treaty?

• To establish a new currency

• To settle outstanding British debts owed to American merchants

• To increase tariffs on British goods

• To form a joint military force

Which area was involved in the boundary disputes addressed by the Jay Treaty?

• The Louisiana Territory

• The Northwest Territory

• The Florida Territory

• The Oregon Territory

What issue related to maritime rights was addressed by the Jay Treaty?

• The regulation of pirate activities

• Fishing rights in the Atlantic

• The construction of new ports

• The impressment of American sailors by the British Navy

Why did President George Washington support the Jay Treaty despite opposition?

• To strengthen ties with France

• To preserve peace with Britain during the French Revolutionary Wars

• To gain political support from the Jeffersonian Republicans

• To expand American territory

What political divisions did the Jay Treaty highlight in the United States?

• Between the Loyalists and Patriots

• Between the Federalists and Jeffersonian Republicans

• Between the Democrats and Republicans

• Between the Whigs and Tories