Summary of Diplomatic Crises and International Relations

Diplomatic Crises Post-Civil War

  • Emergence of Two Nations: The Civil War resulted in a reunited United States and a united Canada, the latter becoming the Dominion of Canada in 1867.

  • Irish-American Invasions: Small Irish-American militia attempted invasions of Canada in 1866 and 1870, criticized by Canadians and complicated by American voter demographics.

French Involvement in Mexico

  • Napoleon III's Actions: In 1863, he sent troops to occupy Mexico City and installed Maximilian as a puppet ruler, violating the Monroe Doctrine. He aimed to weaken the US while it was distracted.

Anglo-American Tensions

  • Laird Rams Crisis (1863): The construction of Confederate warships in Britain caused tensions. US Minister Adams warned of war if the ships were delivered to the Confederacy. Britain ultimately bought the ships for its Navy.

  • Reparations and Apologies: In 1871, Britain agreed to arbitration over Alabama raiders, paying $15.5 million to the US in 1872 for damages.

Post-War Foreign Policy

  • Support for Mexico Post-Civil War: After the US Civil War, Secretary of State Seward prepared for intervention in Mexico as Napoleon withdrew support from Maximilian in 1867, leading to Maximilian's execution.

  • Continued Hostility Towards Canada: Southern agents plotted against Northern cities, exacerbating tensions, particularly among Irish Americans.