In Our Time cover image

In Our Time

The Franco-American Alliance 1778

Apr 22, 2021
Frank Cogliano, a Professor of American History, Kathleen Burk, a Professor Emerita specializing in modern history, and Michael Rapport, an expert in European history, dive deep into the transformative 1778 Franco-American alliance. They discuss France's motivation for supporting the American Revolution and its subsequent financial strains that fueled the French Revolution. The conversation also touches on America's tricky diplomacy amidst renewed Franco-British conflict, the influence of Benjamin Franklin, and the evolving dynamics surrounding slavery and revolutionary fervor.
50:51

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Quick takeaways

  • The Franco-American Alliance of 1778 had profound consequences for both France and the United States, as it played a decisive role in the American Revolution, with the French navy supporting the American victory and French taxpayers financing the revolutionaries.
  • Over time, the relationship between France and the United States deteriorated due to shifts in political dynamics, conflicting economic interests, and the complexities of international affairs, leading to undeclared war at sea and a decline in the substance of the Franco-American Alliance.

Deep dives

The Importance of the Franco-American Alliance

The Franco-American Alliance of 1778 played a crucial role in the American Revolution, with France providing vital support to the American colonies. The French navy played a decisive role in the American victory, and French taxpayers financed the American revolutionaries. The alliance had profound consequences for both France and the United States, shaping their long-term interests and relations. However, over time, the relationship between the two countries deteriorated due to various factors, including shifts in political dynamics, conflicting economic interests, and the complexities of international affairs.

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