Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de La Fayette, known in the United States as Lafayette, was a French military officer and politician who volunteered to join the Continental Army, led by General George Washington, in the American Revolutionary War. Lafayette commanded Continental Army troops in the decisive siege of Yorktown in 1781, the Revolutionary War's final major battle, which secured American independence. After returning to France, Lafayette became a key figure in the French Revolution of 1789 and the July Revolution of 1830 and continues to be celebrated as a hero in both France and the United States.
[September 11, 1782?] 7 In Case a letter is Received from M. Oswald Count de Vergennes proposes to have this Sentence. Que d’après les Instructions et les pouvoirs dont il…
Paris Septembre 17h 1782 My dear Sir Every Child of Mine that Comes to Light is a Small Addition to the Number of American Citizens— I Have the pleasure to…
Paris October the 6h 1782 My dear Sir Your favor of the 29h last Has Safely Come to Hand, for Which I am the More Obliged to you, as I…
On Board the Censeur December the 4th 1782 Dear Sir To My Very Great Concern, I Have not Yet Received Your Answer to My letter, 4 Nor the Account of…
Marquis de Lafayette invites Benjamin Franklin to dine with him at his home on Rue de Bourbon in Paris on Thursday, May 3, 1783. The letter serves as a polite social invitation during the concluding period of the American Revolutionary War. Lafayette expresses respect and cordiality toward Franklin.
Marquis de Lafayette informs the American Peace Commissioners that European powers plan to sign their treaties simultaneously under the mediation of the Emperor and Russia, and asks whether America will accept this mediation for its treaty with Britain. He relays Count de Vergennes' suggestion to jointly request mediation from Vienna and Petersburg if America agrees. Lafayette also expresses hope that America will secure the harbor of L’Orient for its trade.
Marquis de Lafayette informs Benjamin Franklin and John Jay that he has received letters from America up to May 1 and refers them to their correspondence for detailed information. He plans to meet them the following morning to share any new intelligence he has obtained. Lafayette also notes that Count de Vergennes inquires about the satisfaction of Mr. Hartley’s recent dispatches.
Marquis de Lafayette invites Benjamin Franklin to an American dinner in Paris, where William Pitt and other notable guests will attend. Lafayette emphasizes Franklin as the central figure of the gathering and expresses hope that Franklin will join without risking his health.
Marquis de Lafayette informs Benjamin Franklin that he is sending a copy of the decree establishing free ports, in case Franklin has not yet received it. The letter aims to ensure Franklin is updated on this important economic development. Lafayette expresses respect and affection in his communication.
Marquis de Lafayette informs Benjamin Franklin of his planned departure from Paris on June 22, 1784, and expresses his intention to visit Franklin before leaving. He inquires about recent news from America, mentioning debates over the Cincinnati Society, Congress's proposed six-month adjournment with limited committee powers, and the sale of the Washington Packet. Lafayette also asks if Franklin has received any updates regarding his own initiatives.
Marquis de Lafayette expresses deep gratitude for the warm reception in Boston and outlines his travel plans to visit Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Virginia before joining Congress. He reflects on his commitment to America and requests that Congress officially recognize his ongoing support and information-sharing as a patriotic service without formal public office. Lafayette hopes to spend more time with Alexander Hamilton and friends in New York soon.
Marquis de Lafayette invites Benjamin Franklin to dine at his home in Paris on the upcoming Monday. He requests Franklin to confirm his attendance. The letter reflects Lafayette's ongoing friendship and diplomatic connection with Franklin after the American Revolution.
Lafayette writes to Alexander Hamilton expressing affection and friendship, mentioning mutual acquaintances and plans to visit European troops. He requests Hamilton to support his admission to an anti-slavery association and shares happiness about Greene sending his son to be educated with Lafayette's. The letter conveys personal warmth and political engagement in post-Revolutionary America.
Paris january the 5 th 1787 My dear Sir I Expected to write to You By c ll franks, But as His departure Has Been daily differed, I will not…
Paris le 7 fevrier 1787. 1 J’ai Recue, monsieur, avec bien de la Reconnoissance les detaïls que vous avis la Bonté de m’envoïer; 2 ils sont alarmans même pour Ceux…
Paris April the 9 th 1787 My dear Sir I Have long wished for a private opportunity to write to you, And while Expecting it, Have deprived myself of the…
Marquis de Lafayette informs Alexander Hamilton about the unusual convening of the French Assembly of Notables in 1787, which challenges royal authority by demanding provincial assemblies and greater national representation. He explains that this assembly, unlike the compliant one in 1626, acts as an interpreter of the nation's will against despotism and arbitrary taxation. Lafayette emphasizes the growing political awareness and resistance to ministerial control in France.
Paris October the 12 th 1787 My dear friend Amidst the Buzzling of Interior and foreign Affairs, I am glad to find an Opportunity to Remind you of Me, Which…
Paris May the 25 th [ 1788 ] My dear Sir I Will not Enter on a detaïl of European Affairs, Still less So of our trouble in france, as…
La Grange—20th Nione jan. the 10th. 1801 (U.S.) Dear Sir Whether My Letters to America, or the Answers from My friends Have Miscarried I am Not Able to determine—Certain it…
Paris August 13th 1823 My dear old friend I Most Heartily thank You for Your Affectionate Letter of Last october which I Have received only three days Ago and Have…
Newyork September 20h 1824 My dear friend I Have Been Very Happy to See You, and altho’ I Regretted The Shortness of My Visit, and the absence of Your Son,…
Washington february 12h 1825 My dear Sir Receive the Most Cordial Congratulations from an old friend of the father and the Son, who on this Occasion feels much for You,…