How Washington Lafayette And The Friendship That Saved The Revolution Changed History Forever

Picture this: it is the year 1777, and the American Revolution is in full swing. The fate of the young nation lies in the hands of a determined group of patriots fighting for their independence from British rule. Among them, two men stand out as key figures in shaping the outcome of this historic struggle - George Washington and Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, better known as the Marquis de Lafayette.

In this article, we will explore the fascinating story of Washington Lafayette and delve into the depths of their unique friendship. We will uncover how their bond not only saved the Revolution but also laid the foundation for the enduring Franco-American alliance.

The Meeting That Sparked a Friendship

George Washington, the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, had already established himself as a formidable leader when he first encountered the young French aristocrat, Marquis de Lafayette. Despite the significant age difference and diverse backgrounds, a connection sparked between them that would change the course of history.

Adopted Son: Washington, Lafayette, and the Friendship that Saved the Revolution

by David A. Clary (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4462 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	592 pages

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Lafayette, at just nineteen years old, had already developed a deep admiration for the American cause. Inspired by the principles of liberty and equality that the Revolution represented, he decided to sail across the Atlantic and offer his services to Washington and the founding fathers.

When Lafayette arrived in Philadelphia in 1777, he requested an audience with General Washington. The two men met, and their friendship was forged. Washington recognized the young marquis's passion and commitment to the cause, tapping into his idealism and energy. He saw in Lafayette the potential for a game-changing ally.

Washington's wisdom and experience perfectly complemented Lafayette's zeal and youthful enthusiasm. Their friendship became a symbiotic relationship with Lafayette's unwavering support and loyalty to Washington's strategic vision.

The Battle of Brandywine and Valley Forge

Their friendship was put to the test on the battlefield during the Battle of Brandywine in 1777. Washington entrusted Lafayette with a crucial role, demonstrating his faith in the young Frenchman's abilities. Lafayette fearlessly led his troops against the British, displaying immense bravery and tactical expertise.

Despite suffering a defeat at Brandywine, Lafayette's performance impressed Washington, confirming the marquis's status as a trusted military advisor and friend. Washington recognized Lafayette's potential to uplift the morale of the American troops and unite them under a common cause.

Following Brandywine, the Continental Army faced a treacherous winter at Valley Forge. Lafayette's unwavering support played a pivotal role in maintaining the army's morale during this difficult time. He worked tirelessly alongside Washington, assisting with the training and organization of the troops and providing compassionate leadership.

Washington's friendship with Lafayette during these trying times not only buoyed the spirits of the American soldiers but also showcased the strength of the Franco-American alliance. French troops and support would prove instrumental in securing victory for the American cause in decades to come.

The French Connection and Lafayette's Return

Lafayette's involvement in the American Revolution had far-reaching effects beyond his military contributions. Following the American victory at the Battle of Saratoga in 1777, his influential connections in France helped secure critical French assistance.

Warned of the possible outcome by his trusted ally Lafayette, King Louis XVI of France recognized the potential benefits of supporting the American cause. After all, France held a longstanding rivalry with Britain and saw an opportunity to weaken its enemy by aiding the colonists.

In 1779, Lafayette returned to France, his heroic deeds and close friendship with Washington earning him a place of respect among French officials. He embarked on a mission to secure greater support for the American Revolution, leading to a formal treaty between France and the United States in 1778.

Washington's unwavering trust and friendship proved crucial in strengthening the Franco-American alliance, a partnership that would prove decisive in securing American independence. Without Lafayette's determination and Washington's belief in him, this alliance may not have materialized.

The Legacy of Washington Lafayette

The friendship between George Washington and Lafayette extended far beyond the American Revolution. Their bond endured for over forty years, with letters exchanged between them until Washington's death in 1799.

Lafayette, deeply affected by Washington's passing, played a significant role in encouraging the French Revolution. He fought for the same democratic principles he witnessed in action during his time in America, striving to create a more egalitarian society in France.

Washington's impact on Lafayette did not end there. When Lafayette faced persecution during the French Revolution, Washington's legacy inspired him to persevere. Lafayette's unwavering belief in the principles of liberty and equality never wavered, a testament to the enduring impact of his friendship with Washington.

The friendship between Washington and Lafayette underscores the power of camaraderie and solidarity in times of struggle. It demonstrates how an unlikely connection can shape the course of history and inspire generations to come.

In

Washington Lafayette, a friendship that saved the Revolution and changed the world forever. The alliance between these two influential figures fused their strengths, combining wisdom, youthful enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to the principles of liberty and equality.

As we reflect on this historic friendship, we are reminded of the transformative power that lies within human connection - the power to shape destinies, galvanize movements, and change the world.

Adopted Son: Washington, Lafayette, and the Friendship that Saved the Revolution

by David A. Clary (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4462 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	592 pages

FREE

They were unlikely comrades-in-arms. One was a self-taught, middle-aged Virginia planter in charge of a ragtag army of revolutionaries, the other a rich, glory-seeking teenage French aristocrat. But the childless Washington and the orphaned Lafayette forged a bond between them as strong as any between father and son. It was an unbreakable trust that saw them through betrayals, shifting political alliances, and the trials of war.

Lafayette came to America a rebellious youth whose defiance of his king made him a celebrity in France. His money and connections attracted the favor of the Continental Congress, which advised Washington to keep the exuberant Marquis from getting himself killed. But when the boy-general was wounded in his first battle, he became a hero of two countries. As the war ground on, Washington found in his young charge the makings of a courageous and talented commander whose loyalty, generosity, and eagerness to please his Commander in Chief made him one of the war’s most effective and inspired generals. Lafayette’s hounding of Cornwallis’s army was the perfect demonstration of Washington’s unconventional “bush-fighting” tactics, and led to the British surrender at Yorktown.

Their friendship continued throughout their lives. Lafayette inspired widespread French support for a struggling young America and personally influenced Washington’s antislavery views. Washington’s enduring example as general and statesman guided Lafayette during France’s own revolution years later.

Using personal letters and other key historical documents, Adopted Son offers a rare glimpse of the American Revolution through the friendship between Washington and Lafayette. It offers dramatic accounts of battles and intimate portraits of such major figures as Alexander Hamilton, Benedict Arnold, and Benjamin Franklin. The result is a remarkable, little-known epic of friendship, revolution, and the birth of a nation.