1798

Diplomacy with France has officially failed. American shipping lanes are targeted by French privateers. King Henry I meets with Chancellor John Adams, and though the latter is reluctant at first, the two address Congress for approval on a formal declaration of war. In May of 1798, Congress approves, and conflicts begin rapidly in the Caribbean.
  Later in the year, Britain and another European coalition also declare war on France. America never officially becomes a member of the Coalition. Relations with Spain is hindered as Spanish ports in the Caribbean and Florida offer port to the French Navy. Anti-British immigrants begin to protest the Franco-American War. In reaction, Federalist Congress passes the Alien and Sedition Acts, greatly diminishing the party’s popularity and receiving condemnation from the King.
  A statute barely passes Congress, prohibiting the slave trade in the Mississippi Territory. Relations between the North and South sour further. Regardless, Georgia legislation bans importation of new slaves.
  Washington passes away, with King Henry declaring a day of mourning. The monarchy formally funds funeral processions, holding a wake in the newly completed Royal Palace setting a precedent going forward. Henry personally pays respect the Washington, and reads an impassioned speech dedicated to the victories of Washington’s life, adding to his popularity. Many demand the construction of a mausoleum, but King Henry orders that Washington’s will be respected and his remains be buried at his home at Mount Vernon. He does, however, agree on a memorial.
  Britain seeks a complete end to endorsing Native rebellion against America as the two powers become more amicable as they fight the French. In the years since the Jay Treaty, American officials sought to retain positive relations with the Natives in the area. This is bolstered tremendously by the now depletion of the largest anti-American funding. Native controlled forts allow for the area to be maintained and policed, medical and technical advances increase Native quality of life, and mutual military cooperation allows for local alliances. Natives are trained and drilled in modern European warfare, and Americans learn the fundamentals of Native based guerrilla tactics. This sees the formation of the Pathfinders, later formed as the Army Rangers.