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President James Monroe invited the Marquis de Lafayette to visit the United States, his adopted country. Lafayette’s tour of all 24 states in 1824 and 1825 drew large crowds and sparked a renewal of patriotism. During the American Revolution, Lafayette’s intense advocacy of the American cause convinced King Louis XVI of France to send troops and ships, which proved crucial to the American victory at Yorktown. 

Lafayette arrived in Orange, Virginia, on November 19, 1824, during the southern leg of his Farewell Tour. He was formally welcomed by local citizens and Revolutionary War veterans, a recurring and emotionally powerful theme throughout his visits. His stops in Virginia were especially meaningful because of his role at Yorktown and his close friendships with Washington, Jefferson, and Madison. He returned to Orange on August 22, 1825.

Learn about Revolutionary War Combat Strategy. Watch the Revolutionary War . For a summary, read An Overview of the American Revolution.