Chapter 3 Summary and Analysis

The letters of chapter three range from September 1785 to February 1786. Adams and Jefferson faced important diplomatic challenges with respect to trade relations. Many treaties needed to be established, and in the start of the exchange, the major concern was Prussia. But Adams and Jefferson knew the man challenges were Great Britain and France. Great Britain, they thought, would refuse to honor their agreements with the United States. They were right about this.

Adams and Jefferson had also secured most favored nation treatment with France. But because the countries were friendly, Britain made difficulties. Adams and Jefferson had to engage in a number of frustrating negotiations. Adams and Jefferson began to see themselves as economists, or "oeconomists."

They had to focus on whale oil and candles, gaining admittance to French markets. These markets were competitive but favored the United States before the...