How Important Was The French Assistance In The Revolutionary War

The French assistance in the Revolutionary war was essential for the American victory over the British. The Americans were very lucky in their alliance with the French because of their differences in their governmental structure and religion. The French did not support the idea of colonies revolting and democracy because they were a monarchy. The French allied with the Americans in their fight for independence in order to get revenge on the British. The loss of the colonies would weaken the British. Benjamin Franklin played a major role in the alliance. He took advantage of their issues with Britain. Before being given French aid, the Americans were in desperate need of money, supplies, and troops. The United States would have lost the Revolutionary war if it were not for the French intervention.

The French provided a majority of the materials and ammunition. Before the French joined, the Continental Congress was in financial crisis. The Congress did not have the power to tax, and as a solution,
First, General Clinton captured Charleston, and he captured the 5,000 troops that were there. Next, the American forces led by General Horatio Gates were defeated by Cornwallis at Camden. Already, it was apparent that the enthusiasm for the cause was subsiding, as only 1,200 militiamen fought with Gates and Camden, which was five times less than in the Battle of Saratoga. This victory led to Cornwallis gaining control of South Carolina and to many African Americans joining the British. The Americans only began to claim victories after Lafayette convinced King Louis XVI to send troops. General Rochambeau was sent along with 5,500 men to Rhode Island. If it were not for French intervention, the British would have continued to slaughter and capture the American forces, until there was no rebellion left. Without the French, Washington’s strategy would not have