Question

france during the american revolution
the americans worked really hard to get the french to become their allies. people like benjamin franklin helped convince the french to support the americans. at the same time, american soldiers fought hard in battles to show they were strong. after winning an important battle at saratoga, the americans got the french to join them. the french saw this as a chance to hurt their old enemy, the british. with the french helping the american army, the way the americans fought in the war changed. the french helped the americans with new strategies and helped them win battles in the seas.
saratoga: a battle where the americans defeated the british

1. why was it important for a “famous” person like benjamin franklin to convince the french to get help in the war?
2. who do you believe had a bigger impact influencing the french, benjamin franklin or the american soldiers by the way they fought?
3. how did the french help the americans?
4. eventually the united states gained independence from the british with the help of the french. would the victory help or hurt the french?

Explanation:

1. Benjamin Franklin was well - known and respected in France. His influence could sway French decision - makers more effectively than an ordinary person. He had social and diplomatic connections that could help present the American cause in a favorable light.
2. Both had significant impacts. Franklin used his diplomatic skills and reputation to build relationships and gain French support. American soldiers' bravery and victories in battles like Saratoga demonstrated their worth as allies, which also influenced the French. It's hard to say which had a bigger impact as they complemented each other.
3. The French provided military support by joining the war, sharing new strategies, and helping the Americans win naval battles.
4. In the short - term, it could be seen as helpful as it weakened their long - time rival, Britain. However, it also cost France a lot in terms of resources and debt, which may have contributed to its own internal problems later.

Answer:

1. His influence and connections could sway French decision - makers.
2. Both had significant impacts and complemented each other.
3. They provided military support, shared strategies, and helped in naval battles.
4. It had both positive (weakening Britain) and negative (resource and debt issues) aspects for France.