Today in History: Franco-American Alliance
Today in History–February 6–the Library of Congress features the Franco-American alliance, solidified on this date in 1778 when France and the United States signed the Treaty of Amity and Commerce and the Treaty of Alliance. The former recognized the United States as an independent nation and promoted trade between the two countries and the latter created a military alliance against Great Britain so long as America remained independent. Learn more by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access numerous primary sources related to this important juncture in the American revolution.
Primary sources
- Treaty of Amity and Commerce
- Treaty of Alliance
- Books about the French alliance
- The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States: “Attitude of France to the United States“
- George Washington General Order celebrating the new alliance with France
- Richard Henry Lee to Thomas Jefferson May 3, 1778, Treaties of Commerce and Alliance Between France and United States
- Richard Henry Lee to Thomas Jefferson May 11, 1778, Ratification and Publication of Treaties of Commerce and Alliance Between France and United States
- A Political Satire on French Alliance (rebus)
- Another Political Satire on French Alliance (rebus)
- Freedom, peace, plenty, all in vain advance … (etching & engraving)
- Le Général Washington ne quid detrimenti capiat res publica (engraving)
- The signing of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce and of Alliance between France and the United States (painting)
- Treaty of Alliance research guide
Background
- Franco-American alliance from America’s Library
- French Participation in the American War of Independence Collaborative Digital Library project
- The Franco-American Revolution – Part 1 4 Corners of the World June 19, 2021
- The Franco-American Revolution – Part 2 4 Corners of the World July 14, 2021
Primary source learning activities
- The French Alliance
- Washington and Laurens Exchange Private Views of the French Alliance November 1778
Related resources