Edmond-Charles Genêt
Edmond-Charles Genêt (January 8, 1763July 14, 1834), also known as
Citizen Genêt, was the French envoy to the United States appointed by the
Girondins during the
French Revolution. His actions on arriving in the United States led to a major political and international incident, which was termed the Citizen Genêt affair. Because of his actions, President
George Washington asked the French government to recall him. The
Montagnards, having risen to power at the same time, replaced Genêt and issued a warrant for his arrest. Fearing for his life, Genêt asked for
asylum in America, which was granted by Washington. Genêt stayed in the United States until his death. Historian
Carol Berkin argues that the Genêt affair bolstered popular respect for the president and strengthened his role in dealing with foreign affairs.
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