Marquis de Lafayette, Marquis de Quotes

A collection of quotes by Marquis de Lafayette, Marquis de.

Marquis de Lafayette, also known as Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, was born on September 6, 1757, in Chavaniac, France. He grew up in a noble family and at only 16 years old, he joined the French Army.

Lafayette's greatest claim to fame was his involvement in the American Revolutionary War. Inspired by the ideals of liberty and equality, he offered his services to the American colonists in their struggle for independence from Great Britain. In 1777, he traveled to America and quickly earned the respect of General George Washington, becoming one of his closest advisors. Lafayette played a key role in several important battles, including the Battle of Brandywine and the Siege of Yorktown.

After the war, Lafayette returned to France where he continued to support the cause of liberty. He played a significant role in the French Revolution, advocating for a constitutional monarchy and actively promoting the rights of the French people. However, as the revolution turned increasingly radical and violent, Lafayette found himself at odds with the radical factions.

Despite his dedication to the French Revolution, Lafayette fell out of favor with the government, and during the Reign of Terror, he was imprisoned for five years. Following his release, he largely withdrew from politics and lived a quieter life.

Marquis de Lafayette is remembered as a champion of liberty, both in America and France. He died on May 20, 1834, in Paris, leaving behind a legacy as a hero and a symbol of the struggle for freedom.