American Independence And The Men Of France And Spain Who Saved It

American independence is a pivotal moment in history, a time when the newly formed nation fought against the shackles of colonialism to secure its own freedom. While many are familiar with the stories of American heroes such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin, not as much attention is given to the invaluable support provided by the men from France and Spain.

The Franco-American Alliance

One of the most significant contributions to American independence came from France. In 1778, French authorities signed the Treaty of Alliance with the United States, formally recognizing the country's independence and establishing the Franco-American alliance. This alliance proved to be a game-changer for the American Revolution.

Brothers at Arms: American Independence and the Men of France and Spain Who Saved It

by Larrie D. Ferreiro (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

FREE

France provided crucial military assistance to the American cause, including naval support and supplies. The French navy, under the command of Count de Grasse, played a pivotal role in the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. This decisive victory became a turning point in the war, leading to the surrender of the British army and ultimately securing the independence of the United States.

The Marquis de Lafayette

One of the most notable figures in the Franco-American relationship during the American Revolution was the Marquis de Lafayette. Born in France, Lafayette played a key role in rallying French support for the American cause and became a trusted aide to George Washington.

Lafayette not only fought alongside American troops but also used his connections to secure additional aid from the French government. He played a crucial role in persuading the French to send troops and supplies to support the American army, ensuring they had the necessary resources to continue the fight for independence.

Spanish Support and The Battle of Pensacola

While France was an essential ally to the United States, the support from Spain should not be overlooked. Spain, seeking to weaken its rival Britain, provided critical assistance to the American colonists during the revolution.

One of the most significant contributions came in the form of the Battle of Pensacola in 1781. Spanish forces, led by Bernardo de Galvez, successfully captured the British-held city of Pensacola, Florida. This victory not only prevented British reinforcements from reaching the colonies but also disrupted their supply lines, weakening their hold on the American territories.

Financial and Moral Support

In addition to military aid, both France and Spain assisted the United States financially. France provided substantial loans to the American government, helping to fund the war effort and stabilize the fledgling nation. Spain also offered financial support, recognizing the importance of an independent America to its own interests.

Moreover, the assistance provided by these European powers boosted the morale of the American troops and helped solidify their belief in their fight for independence. The knowledge that they had the support of powerful nations gave the soldiers the strength and determination to continue their struggle against the British forces.

The Legacy of French and Spanish Contributions

The contributions of France and Spain to American independence should not be underestimated. Without their military, financial, and moral support, the outcome of the American Revolution could have been dramatically different.

The Franco-American alliance forged during the Revolution laid the groundwork for future relations between the two nations. The bond formed in the crucible of war remained strong, and France continued to support the United States during subsequent conflicts, such as the War of 1812 and World Wars I and II.

Spain's involvement in the American Revolution also had a lasting impact. By weakening Britain's hold in North America, Spain indirectly contributed to the expansion of the United States and the eventual acquisition of territories like Florida and parts of the West.

The American Revolution was not won by American heroes alone. The support provided by France and Spain played a vital role in securing independence for the United States. The military assistance, financial aid, and moral support from these European powers cannot be overstated. The legacy of their contributions continues to be felt today, reminding us of the importance of international alliances and the profound impact they can have on shaping history.

Brothers at Arms: American Independence and the Men of France and Spain Who Saved It

by Larrie D. Ferreiro (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

FREE

Pulitzer Prize Finalist in History

Winner of the Journal of the American Revolution 2016 Book of the Year Award

The remarkable untold story of how the American Revolution's success depended on substantial military assistance provided by France and Spain, and places the Revolution in the context of the global strategic interests of those nations in their fight against England. 
 
In this groundbreaking, revisionist history, Larrie Ferreiro shows that at the time the first shots were fired at Lexington and Concord the colonists had little chance, if any, of militarily defeating the British. The nascent American nation had no navy, little in the way of artillery, and a militia bereft even of gunpowder. In his detailed accounts Ferreiro shows that without the extensive military and financial support of the French and Spanish, the American cause would never have succeeded. France and Spain provided close to the equivalent of $30 billion and 90 percent of all guns used by the Americans, and they sent soldiers and sailors by the thousands to fight and die alongside the Americans, as well as around the world.  
    
Ferreiro adds to the historical records the names of French and Spanish diplomats, merchants, soldiers, and sailors whose contribution is at last given recognition. Instead of viewing the American Revolution in isolation, Brothers at Arms reveals the birth of the American nation as the centerpiece of an international coalition fighting against a common enemy.