Which U.S. figure was involved in the XYZ Affair?

The XYZ Affair was a diplomatic incident that occurred during John Adams' presidency, specifically between 1797 and 1798. It involved a confrontation between the United States and France, where American diplomats were propositioned by French agents — referred to as X, Y, and Z — who demanded bribes for the privilege of negotiating with French officials. This scandal stirred significant public outrage in the United States and led to the Quasi-War with France.

John Adams, as president at the time, played a crucial role in handling the situation, opting for diplomacy over military engagement. His handling of the XYZ Affair was significant as it influenced public perception and political sentiment at the time.

Charles Pinckney was indeed involved in the affair as one of the diplomats sent to France, but he did not hold the primary role like John Adams. He is often associated with the incident, yet it is Adams who is more closely linked to the broader context and subsequent consequences of the affair, making John Adams the most relevant figure connected to the XYZ Affair.