Marquis de Lafayette was a patriot. He was a key figure in the American Revolutionary War, fighting for the American colonies’ independence from British rule. Lafayette, a French aristocrat, arrived in America in 1777 and quickly became an important general in the Continental Army, serving under leaders like George Washington.
His commitment to the American cause was not just military; Lafayette also played a significant role in advocating for the principles of liberty and democracy. He believed in the ideals of the Enlightenment, which emphasized individual rights and government by consent. His involvement in the revolution was motivated by a strong desire to support the American quest for freedom, making him an emblematic figure of the patriot movement.
Throughout the war, Lafayette’s contributions included strategic leadership and significant financial support for the American efforts. He returned to France after the war but remained a supporter of revolutionary ideals, participating in the French Revolution as well.