July 31, 1777: Congress passes a resolution in support of Marquis de Lafayette

Saturday 31 July 2010

Marquis de Lafayette was a French military officer active in both the French and American revolutions. After hearing about the conflict in the U.S. in 1775, he travelled to the colonies and met with Gen. George Washington, contributing his military service and finances to the Revolution. He also helped by persuading France to send more soldiers to America.

The Congressional resolution passed in 1777 stated that “his services be accepted, and that, in consideration of his zeal, illustrious family, and connections, he have the rank and commission of major-general of the United States.”