Which French aristocrat became a major general in the Continental Army?

The Marquis de Lafayette became a major general in the Continental Army.

Born Gilbert du Motier, Lafayette was a young French aristocrat who volunteered for the American cause in 1777. He initially offered to serve without pay, and the Continental Congress appointed him a major general despite his limited combat experience. He soon formed a close personal and professional relationship with George Washington.

Lafayette was wounded at the Battle of Brandywine in 1777 but remained with the American cause. He later commanded troops in Virginia and helped contain British forces under Charles Cornwallis. His service strengthened the political and military connection between the United States and France.

Lafayette returned to France after the Revolution but remained celebrated in the United States. His title is commonly rendered “Marquis de Lafayette,” while his full name was Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette. He was French, not a colonial-born American officer.