The Neutrality Proclamation was a policy announced by President Washington that the United States would not interfere in the frayed relationship between Great Britain and France. The proclamation ensured that the United States would not enter into a war on President Washington’s watch, as he believed such an entry would threaten the well-being of the fledging nation.

The French felt a sense of betrayal by Washington’s decision, as the French had served as a key ally during the War for Independence. However, Washington was devoted to the betterment of the United States, not what was best for France. But there were critics who maintained that Washington was too subservient at times to Great Britain.