* Limited Role in Diplomatic Negotiations: While Pinkney served as the US Attorney General under President James Madison, he was not directly involved in the negotiations with Spain regarding the acquisition of Florida. These negotiations were primarily led by John Quincy Adams, who served as Secretary of State.
* Focus on Legal Matters: Pinkney's primary expertise and focus were on legal matters. He was a skilled lawyer who served as a US Supreme Court justice and was instrumental in shaping legal precedent. His contributions to dealing with Spain were primarily related to legal disputes and arguments, not diplomacy.
* Legal Arguments Against Spanish Claims: Pinkney's most significant impact on US-Spanish relations involved legal arguments against Spanish claims. He argued against Spanish claims of territory in the West and opposed Spanish attempts to restrict American access to the Mississippi River.
* Indirect Influence: While not directly involved in negotiations, Pinkney's legal arguments and positions likely influenced the overall US strategy towards Spain. His insights contributed to the development of US legal claims and bolstered the US position in dealing with Spain.
In summary, Thomas Pinkney's impact on dealing with Spain was primarily through his legal expertise and advocacy. He was not directly involved in negotiations, but his legal arguments and positions contributed to the US position in disputes with Spain, indirectly impacting the relationship between the two nations.