France aided the colonists greatly in the American Revolution, especially with providing a source for weaponry and assisting their weak militia. As a result, America was able to defeat Britain's strong military. Without the help of France, America would have perished and would have not gained independence from Britain. Out of spite especially, France provided the help, support and materials needed to triumph over the British and earn freedom for the new country, America.
France had sent supplies to America as early as 1775 ("Silas Deane's Mission"). However, America needed to secure a formal alliance with France and began by sponsoring a trip of Benjamin Franklin, Silas Deane, and Arthur Lee ("Benjamin Franklin in France"). In spite of this, France was still unsure of creating a union with the undeveloped country.
The Battle of Saratoga in 1777 marked an important victory for General Washington and his disjointed army. However, the foolish but clever war hero realized that the war could not be won without outside help. Luckily, the French were able and willing, and were prepared to confront their former battle foe again. France saw the opportunity to weaken its rival and restore balance of power between the two countries ("France Allied with 1778").
Once France had seen the dedication to victory and the aspiration for independence, America's desire to form an alliance with France was formally achieved. On February 6, 1778, Treaty of Amity and Commerce was signed between France and America. The Treaty of Amity and Commerce recognized the United States as an independent nation and promoted trade between France and the United States. The Treaty of Alliance created a military coalition against Great Britain, stipulating American independence as a state of peace. The treaty also required France and the U.S. to coincide in any peace agreement ("The Franco-American Alliance"). This treaty was important, for America's dire need for help was beginning to show.
