Who served as ambassador to France and helped arrange the treaty securing French assistance during the war?

• A. George Washington
• B. Benjamin Franklin
• C. Thomas Jefferson
• D. John Adams

Answer: (B)

Diplomacy with a major ally can change the course of a war, and the right envoy makes that possible. Benjamin Franklin served as the United States’ ambassador to France during the revolution, using his influence and diplomacy to win French support. He helped secure formal recognition, substantial military and financial aid, and crucial cooperation that culminated in the 1778 Treaty of Alliance, binding France to help the American cause. That alliance brought French troops, naval power, and money into the war, which was pivotal to American success, including victories like Yorktown. George Washington led the fighting on American soil, not diplomacy with France; Jefferson would serve in France later, but not during the war in the essential negotiating role; Adams had other diplomatic duties. Franklin’s position and actions in France explain why he’s the one who arranged the French agreement and support.