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In Our Time cover image

The Franco-American Alliance 1778

In Our Time

NOTE

Diplomacy Shapes War and Alliances

The ability of diplomacy to alter the course of conflict is highlighted by the historical context of American independence. Had Britain offered recognition of authority to colonies in 1775, war might have been averted. Eventually, American and French interests culminated in a two-part treaty consisting of a treaty of amity and commerce and a military alliance, which forced Britain to significantly shift its military resources. By 1780, a stark reduction was noted in British forces; from 65% of its army and 41% of its navy located in North America in 1778, numbers dwindled to 29% and 13% respectively. This shift necessitated Britain to engage in broader military operations to defend its global empire, including fears of invasion from French and Spanish allies. The complex nature of these alliances and military realignments illustrates how diplomacy can shape the dynamics of warfare and influence the strategic decisions of empires.

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