Charles Gravier Vergennes

As Foreign Minister, Vergennes directed French strategy during the American Revolution, balancing support for the colonies with avoiding a full-scale war with Britain. His policies ultimately led to French victory but also massive debt.

Vergennes authorized covert French aid to the American colonies, including weapons, ammunition, and loans, through the dummy company Rodrigue Hortalez et Cie. This support was crucial for the American war effort before France's formal entry.

Vergennes signed the Treaty of Alliance with the United States, bringing France into the American Revolutionary War. This alliance provided French military and naval support, which was decisive in the American victory at Yorktown.

Vergennes negotiated the Treaty of Paris on behalf of France, ending the American Revolutionary War. The treaty recognized American independence and granted France territories in Africa and India, but left France deeply in debt.