In response to the XYZ Affair, how did Congress react concerning military readiness?

The decision to approve the expansion of the army in response to the XYZ Affair stemmed from growing tensions between the United States and France at the end of the 18th century. The XYZ Affair highlighted the threats posed by France to American shipping and security, leading many in Congress to believe that the nation needed to be better prepared for potential conflict. They recognized that an escalation in military readiness was necessary to address these external threats adequately.

The expansion of the army was a direct response to the perceived need for a stronger military presence as diplomatic efforts had not yielded satisfactory results. This action reflected a shift in policy towards a more aggressive posture, preparing the United States for possible war, particularly after the French began attacking American vessels as a result of the diplomatic fallout. Congress's decision signified a moment in American history where military expansion was prioritized over diplomatic solutions in the face of national security concerns.