Financial Support: France provided generous financial aid to the American cause. In 1778, the French government loaned the Americans 2 million livres, and later provided loans totaling over 18 million livres. This financial support helped the Continental Congress fund their military operations, purchase supplies, and pay troops.
Military Support: France sent troops and supplies to support the American war effort. In 1778, a French fleet commanded by Admiral d'Estaing arrived off the American coast, aiding in the defense of Savannah and Charleston. In 1781, a combined French and American army under the command of General Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, joined forces with General George Washington's troops in the decisive Siege of Yorktown, leading to the surrender of the British army under Lord Cornwallis.
Recognition and Diplomacy: France officially recognized the United States as a sovereign nation in 1778. This recognition was crucial for the Americans as it legitimized their fight for independence in the eyes of other European nations. France also used its diplomatic influence to prevent other European powers from aiding Britain and encouraged allies like Spain to support the American cause.