The result of the Convention of 1800 was the end of the Quasi-War, the naval confrontation between France and the United States of America, as well as the termination of the alliance, concluded in 1778. The severance of the union meant for the United States the rejection of all claims in the direction of France. However, despite these losses, thanks to this Convention, America was finally able to establish and proclaim its neutrality.
Explanation:
The reasons for the emergence of the Convention were the existence of an undeclared war, which should have been stopped, as well as in the controversial alliance of 1778. Under this alliance, America has pledged to help France in the Caribbean confrontation with Britain and the Netherlands in exchange for assistance in the American Revolutionary War. However, by the end of the 18th century, it became clear that the current alliance is more of a burden than help for America. Besides, military assistance to end the Revolutionary War was no longer required. At the same time, due to an unpleasant incident with French politicians who demanded bribes for negotiations, Congress allowed French ships to be attacked. It led to the Quasi-War, a naval confrontation with France, which lasted until both parties reached an agreement on their interests.
The main problem was the US claims, which consisted of France’s negligence to pay a debt of $ 20 million for shipping losses. However, France agreed to return them only if the agreements of 1778 would remain. Both options were unacceptable for both sides, and no compromise could be reached. While negotiations were ongoing, in the period from 1799 to 1800, the strategic position of France strengthened. Aware of the urgency of the decision, the commissioners agreed to abandon all of the claims and return to neutral positions. Thus, the result of the 1800 Convention was the termination of the 1778 treaties and the end of the Quasi-War between the United States and France. The consequence of this was also the mutual restoration of the seized ships. Although the Convention was met unfavorably at the time of its adoption, it also indirectly facilitated the purchase of Louisiana after losing its significance to France in 1803.