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.
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.