Which French nobleman became a major American ally during the Revolutionary War?

The Marquis de Lafayette became a major American ally during the Revolutionary War.

Born Gilbert du Motier in France in 1757, Lafayette traveled to North America in 1777 despite opposition from the French government. He volunteered for the Continental Army and received a commission as a major general at age 19.

Lafayette served closely with George Washington and was wounded at the Battle of Brandywine in 1777. He later commanded American forces in Virginia, helping contain British forces under Charles Cornwallis before the siege of Yorktown.

France formally entered the war against Britain in 1778, providing soldiers, ships, money, and supplies. Lafayette’s personal commitment made him an enduring symbol of Franco-American friendship, and he returned to the United States during his celebrated 1824–1825 tour.