During the administration of George Washington, how did Americans feel about the French Revolution?

During the administration of George Washington, how did Americans feel about the French Revolution?

• A. They fully supported it without concern
• B. They were indifferent to it
• C. They supported the revolution but were horrified by mass hysteria
• D. They condemned it outright

Answer: (C)

During the administration of George Washington, Americans generally had a complex view of the French Revolution. Many were initially excited and supportive of the revolution, viewing it as an extension of the values of liberty and self-governance that were celebrated during the American Revolution. However, as the revolution progressed, particularly with the onset of violent uprisings and the Reign of Terror, public sentiment began to change. Option C acknowledges this duality: Americans supported the ideals of liberty that fueled the revolution but were also horrified by the extreme violence and mass hysteria that accompanied some events, such as the guillotine executions of perceived enemies of the revolution. This reaction highlights the broader debate about the balance between revolutionary fervor and maintaining order and human rights, which resonated strongly with many Americans who had only recently struggled for their own freedom. The robust support for revolutionary ideals contrasted with an increasing wariness about the chaos and bloodshed that followed, reflecting a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in revolutionary movements. This dual response shaped American attitudes towards revolutionary change in abroad, illustrating the tension between ideological support and concerns for stability and morality.

During the administration of George Washington, Americans generally had a complex view of the French Revolution. Many were initially excited and supportive of the revolution, viewing it as an extension of the values of liberty and self-governance that were celebrated during the American Revolution. However, as the revolution progressed, particularly with the onset of violent uprisings and the Reign of Terror, public sentiment began to change.

Option C acknowledges this duality: Americans supported the ideals of liberty that fueled the revolution but were also horrified by the extreme violence and mass hysteria that accompanied some events, such as the guillotine executions of perceived enemies of the revolution. This reaction highlights the broader debate about the balance between revolutionary fervor and maintaining order and human rights, which resonated strongly with many Americans who had only recently struggled for their own freedom.

The robust support for revolutionary ideals contrasted with an increasing wariness about the chaos and bloodshed that followed, reflecting a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in revolutionary movements. This dual response shaped American attitudes towards revolutionary change in abroad, illustrating the tension between ideological support and concerns for stability and morality.