Lafayette Lands in America: French Ally Joins the Revolution
The 19-year-old Marquis de Lafayette arrived in North America near Georgetown, South Carolina, on June 13, 1777, having crossed the Atlantic at his own expense on a ship he purchased after the French government forbade his departure. Lafayette was motivated by idealism, a desire for military glory, and resentment toward Britain for defeating France in the Seven Years' War. Congress commissioned him as a major general despite his having no military experience. He was wounded at Brandywine, endured Valley Forge, and commanded troops at Monmouth and Yorktown. His aristocratic connections were crucial in securing French military support, including the fleet and army that won the decisive Battle of Yorktown. Lafayette returned to France and played a significant role in the early stages of the French Revolution before fleeing when it radicalized.
June 13, 1777
249 years ago
Key Figures & Places
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