1799-January-15: Silas Talbot, an American naval officer and agent, submitted a detailed “projet” or plan regarding the strategic future of the French West I…

1799-January-15: Silas Talbot, an American naval officer and agent, submitted a detailed “projet” or plan regarding the strategic future of the French West Indies. He argued that the United States should seek to revolutionize European colonies hostile to American interests to secure a free West Indian and South American trade. Talbot initially suggested seizing certain colonies but later modified his view, fearing that the United States would become too dependent on the British navy for their defense. He eventually rejoiced at the suspension of commerce with France, calling it a “blow” that would be felt in the very heart of the French colonial system. He warned, however, that an independent Saint-Domingue under a “Negro despotism” might become a “young Algiers” if not carefully managed.