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After becoming President of the United States, George Washington almost immediately set two critical foreign policy laws. He took control of treaty negotiations. For example, the Creek Nation of Native Americans. He then asked for congressional approval once they were finalized. In addition, he sent American representatives over seas to negotiate.
Departments were formed under Washington. Departments of State, War, and Treasury were established, along with the office of Attorney General, each headed by a trusted presidential adviser. These advisers collectively became known as the cabinet. Washington made sure that these advisers were trusted and strong. He signed the first Judiciary Act of 1789, starting the development of the judicial branch. A Supreme Court was created, headed by a chief justice and originally five associate justices, who were chosen by the President and approved by Congress. Several district courts was also established. Congress sent the President ten amendments to the Constitution that became known as the Bill of Rights; these amendments strengthened civil liberties.
In 1789, France started to struggle with their own independence. Since they had given us so much aid with our own revolution, the natural response was to help them to return the favor. Meanwhile, the British were attacking the settlers in the West, hoping to cause more problems for the new, young country. Washington tried very hard to avoid any foreign conflict, considering his country was too weak and unstable to fight another war. Washington insisted that America would be neutral in conflicts between France and England. He also insisted that the power to determine sides in a war lay within the President's Power.
Controversy over American involvement with the France and British conflict caused a major uproar. Jefferson and Hamilton and their followers fought endlessly over the matter. The French ambassador to the US (Edmond Genet) had been appearing nationwide, drumming up considerable support for the French cause. Washington did not like the fact that some meddling was happening, so he demanded that the French recall Genet.