Lest We Forget 250 Year Speakers Program, "The Revolutionary War"

“It’s complicated: France, the United States and the building of an unlikely alliance.”

Professor Guillaume de Syon, Ph.D. Albright College

Between 1754, when George Washington first encountered “them” and 1784, when the French openly praised him, the United States and France experienced distrust, ideological differences and religious antagonisms. That such a poor beginning led to a solid alliance was the result of circumstances, but also military success, and the work behind the scenes of multiple personalities in both nations. This two-part presentation proposes to look at how the relationship evolved militarily and diplomatically. The ideals of the Enlightenment were shared among elites, but less so among the military and general

populations. Yet, the result, considering the twin revolutions (1775-76 and 1789-99) led to the founding of the American and French Republics and the building of a special relationship between nations.

Admission: FREE

Sponsor: Lest We Forget