Multiple reasons. Firstly, Britain (a world-wide power) was setting humongous taxes on imported and exported goods. (As in the 'Tea Party' the Americans rebelled by throwing the tea into the sea). The colonies were irritated by this whole control, and wanted more power and say in what taxes were put on them.
<span>So, on April 22, 1793, after much debate, Washington issued the Proclamation of Neutrality declaring that the United States would in fact remain neutral during the conflict. Furthermore, the Proclamation stated that the government would prosecute any American citizens who offered help to any of the nations at war.</span>
Im not sure on this one...
Sorry