1870-January-15: Following the capture and execution of President Sylvain Salnave by revolutionary forces, Secretary Fish was forced to pivot his policy.

1870-January-15: Following the capture and execution of President Sylvain Salnave by revolutionary forces, Secretary Fish was forced to pivot his policy. While he had previously refused to recognize the belligerency of the rebels, the total collapse of the Salnave government left the U.S. with no choice but to deal with the new authorities. Fish instructed Minister Bassett to use his “good offices” to protect American interests during the transition, while also looking into the welfare of the families of Americans lost on the Atlanta.