An Act Further To Protect The Commerce Of The United States

After the end of American Revolution and the war against the British the relations between the United States and European powers stabilized and trading started again with Great Britain. However the growing hostility between Britain and France that culminated in war in 1793 jeopardized the relations of the United States with France. As a result of that two nations were on the brink of war by 1798. In spring and summer of 1798 Congress approved several acts to …

… privateers. The act also lured private vessel owners to get commissioned as privateers and fight against the French. The promise of reward from the French vessels helped the cause. The act also sought to capture French vessels to use them in the American Navy. As for the wide picture, the act of 9th July 1798 indicated the world that Americans are ready to defend their independence and actions against the United States will be punished.