What does the timeline suggest as a reason why the French supported the Americans during the Revolutionary War?

Answer 1

The timeline of events leading up to and during the American Revolutionary War suggests several key reasons why the French supported the Americans:

1. Mutual Interests Against Britain: France and Great Britain had a long history of rivalry, and France saw an opportunity to weaken Britain by supporting the American colonies. By aiding the Americans, France aimed to disrupt British dominance and influence in North America.

2. The Enlightenment Ideals: The American Revolution was inspired by Enlightenment ideals of liberty and democracy. These ideals resonated with some French intellectuals and political figures who were critical of the absolute monarchy in France and sought to promote similar values in their own country.

3. Battle of Saratoga: The American victory at the Battle of Saratoga in 1777 was a turning point that demonstrated the viability of the American cause. This significant victory convinced the French leadership that the Americans had a chance of winning the war, leading them to officially enter into an alliance with the colonies in 1778.

4. Formal Alliances: Following the American victories and recognizing the potential for a successful independence movement, France signed the Treaty of Alliance with the United States in 1778. This agreement provided military assistance and resources to the American cause.

5. The American Revolutionary War as a Proxy Conflict: By supporting the Americans, France could engage in a form of indirect warfare against Britain, utilizing resources that otherwise might have been used in direct conflict with Britain.

6. Impact of Previous Conflicts: The French had previously suffered losses to Britain in conflicts like the Seven Years' War, which made the prospect of supporting a rebellion against British rule more appealing as a means of regaining stature and influence.

Overall, these factors combined to make French support for the American Revolutionary War a multifaceted decision rooted in both strategic considerations and ideological sympathies.

Answer 2

pick one

The French hoped to overthrow the Americans and reclaim their land.
The French hoped to overthrow the Americans and reclaim their land.

The French were angry with Britain and wanted to support its enemies.
The French were angry with Britain and wanted to support its enemies.

The French believed supporting the Americans would bring them wealth.
The French believed supporting the Americans would bring them wealth.

The French feared that American troops would attack them unless they joined the war.

Answer 3

The most accurate choice is: The French were angry with Britain and wanted to support its enemies.

This reflects France's longstanding rivalry with Britain and their desire to weaken British power in the wake of previous conflicts, particularly the Seven Years' War. By supporting the American colonies in their struggle for independence, France aimed to diminish British influence and potentially gain leverage in their own geopolitical situation.