The summer of 1778 found the Revolution at a crossroads. The war had already seen stunning American victories like Saratoga, where British General Burgoyne surrendered his entire army, but it had also seen disasters, retreats, and long winters of misery. Into that mix came a new player, an old enemy of Britain and an unexpected friend to the struggling United States: France. The French had finally recognized the American cause and agreed to fight alongside the rebels. This was not just about ideals of liberty. It was about revenge. France had been waiting for a chance to stick it to Britain ever since losing most of its empire in the Seven Years’ War. By 1778, the moment had arrived.
