1. French-British Rivalry: France and Britain were traditional rivals and had a long history of conflicts dating back to the Hundred Years' War. France saw an opportunity to weaken its rival by supporting the American cause against British rule.
2. Enlightenment Ideas: Many French intellectuals and philosophers of the Enlightenment period, such as Voltaire and Rousseau, supported the cause of liberty, freedom, and individual rights. They saw the American Revolution as an embodiment of these ideals and were eager to support it.
3. Economic Interests: France hoped to gain economic advantages by supporting the Americans. By helping them win their independence, France aimed to expand its trade opportunities in the Americas and gain access to new markets.
4. Geopolitical Considerations: France believed that a successful American Revolution would challenge British dominance in North America and help restore the balance of power in Europe. By supporting the Americans, France hoped to limit British power and secure its own strategic position on the global stage.
5. Revenge for the Seven Years' War: The Seven Years' War (1756-1763) had resulted in France losing control over much of its colonial empire in North America to the British. Supporting the American cause was seen as an opportunity for France to seek revenge for these losses and regain some of its former territories.
6. Desire to Weaken Britain: France hoped that by helping the Americans, it could weaken Britain's military and financial resources, making it less likely to challenge French interests in other parts of the world, such as the Caribbean and India.
7. Personal Relationship: The French monarchy, particularly King Louis XVI, felt a sense of moral duty to support the Americans in their struggle for freedom and independence, influenced by the ideals of the Enlightenment.