Why did Adams increase the size of the American Navy?
a.) He wanted to prepare for an all-out war on Britain.
b.) He hoped it would deter more attacks by French ships. *
Is this right?
Yes, b.
Ok, thank you!
You're welcome.
Yes, you are correct. Adams increased the size of the American Navy in the late 1790s to deter attacks by French ships. The correct answer is b.) He hoped it would deter more attacks by French ships.
To find the answer to this question, one could start by researching the historical context during John Adams' presidency. This period is known as the Quasi-War, a undeclared naval conflict between the United States and France that occurred from 1798 to 1800. During this time, there were many incidents of French privateers seizing American merchant ships. In response, Adams sought to strengthen the American Navy.
By increasing the size of the American Navy, Adams aimed to defend American interests in the face of French aggression and protect American trade routes. The naval buildup was seen as a vital means of safeguarding American ships and deterring further attacks by French vessels.