Sunday, the 19th is the 227th Anniversary of the signing of the official surrender documents by Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown--where the British Regimental Band played "The World Turned Upside Down." This American victory lead to the British agreeing to our Independence.
When we think about Yorktown, which we mostly don't, we usually forget the large contribution of the French, including Lieutenant General Rochambeau and his 5,500 troops and Admiral de Grasse and his fleet. The French fleet was key, in that it denied British forces relief. Sometimes a Navy is decisive without really doing anything, but just by being there.
But, going back to the French, if you wish to critize a Frenchman for the actions of his (or her) Government, first be sure to thank him for support back in 1781, helping us win our War of Independence.
For those interested in American history and who travel by auto, there are a number of highway markers along the route taken by General Washington and General Rochambeau in their march from Newport, Rhode Island to Yorktown, the first being in Connecticut. Information on those markers can be found here.
Regards -- Cliff
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