This resolution commemorates the indispensable service of the Marquis de Lafayette to the United States during the Revolutionary War and recognizes the bicentennial of his farewell tour.
Robert Wittman
Representative
VA-1
This resolution formally commemorates the invaluable service of the Marquis de Lafayette to the United States during the Revolutionary War and recognizes the bicentennial of his farewell tour. It celebrates his military bravery, crucial diplomatic efforts that secured French support, and lifelong commitment to liberty. The bill serves as a formal expression of national gratitude for his foundational role in securing American independence.
Congress Celebrates Lafayette's Service, Marking Bicentennial of His 1824 Farewell Tour
This Congressional resolution is essentially a formal, high-five salute to the Marquis de Lafayette. It doesn’t create new laws or change your taxes, but it’s a big, official thank you note for his service to the United States two centuries ago. It specifically focuses on commemorating the bicentennial of his 1824-1825 farewell tour across the then-24 states.
The Original Side Hustle: Soldier, Diplomat, and Sugar Daddy
The resolution spends a lot of time detailing why Lafayette deserves this shout-out, and honestly, the guy was impressive. It highlights that he was only 19 when he volunteered for the American cause, paid for his own expedition to get here, and served as a Major General without taking a salary. Think about that: he was basically a wealthy young guy who showed up, paid out of pocket for uniforms and supplies for the struggling Continental Army, and then got wounded at Brandywine while leading a retreat. This wasn’t just symbolic support; it was a massive personal investment in the American Revolution.
The Diplomatic Heavy Lifting
Lafayette wasn't just a fighter; he was a crucial diplomat. The resolution notes that when he returned to France, he convinced King Louis XVI to send critical troops, ships, and money, which were game-changers for the war effort. This is the real-world impact: without that diplomatic push, the resources needed to corner Cornwallis at Yorktown might never have arrived. The resolution frames this as the foundation of the long-standing U.S.-French alliance, which is a history lesson we should probably all remember.
A Champion for Modern Issues
Perhaps surprisingly, the resolution also points out that Lafayette was ahead of his time on human rights. It acknowledges his advocacy for ending slavery, supporting women’s rights, and promoting religious freedom. For the average person today, this connects his historical legacy directly to modern civic values. It means that the person Congress is celebrating wasn't just a military figure, but someone who stood for the broader ideals of liberty and equality that we still debate today.
The 200-Year Anniversary
The most immediate action point of this resolution is marking the bicentennial of Lafayette’s 1824-1825 visit, where he traveled over 6,000 miles and addressed Congress. The resolution explicitly acknowledges and supports the ongoing efforts by groups like the American Friends of Lafayette to organize a 13-month, 24-state event series from August 2024 through September 2025. While Congress isn't cutting a check, it is formally putting its weight behind educational efforts that will bring this history to life for students and the public. Essentially, if you’re a history buff or a parent looking for a cool, historical road trip idea next year, this resolution is confirming that there will be a lot of events happening to celebrate this piece of American history.