Which event is most closely associated with initiating French support for the American cause?

• A. Saratoga
• B. Yorktown
• C. Valley Forge
• D. Trenton

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that a foreign power is driven to support a rebel cause when it sees a real chance of the rebels winning. The Battle of Saratoga in 1777 provided that evidence: the American victory suggested that France could gain a valuable ally and weaken Britain by backing the American cause. This convincing display led France to formalize an alliance in 1778, supplying troops, ships, and money that transformed the war effort. Other moments, like the morale boost from Trenton or the hardships faced at Valley Forge, did not by themselves trigger formal foreign involvement, and Yorktown, while decisive, relied on the alliance that Saratoga helped bring about.