1820 Marquis De Lafayette ALS - Paris - French & American Revolution

1820 MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED ALS – PARIS – FRENCH REVOLUTION & AMERICAN REVOLUTION HERO

Original autograph letter signed by Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette (1757–1834), the celebrated hero of the American Revolution and one of the most important figures of the French Revolution.

Dated: Paris, 22 May 1820

Signed: "Lafayette"

One page on a folded letter sheet with integral address panel, original postal markings, and seal remnants.

Written during Lafayette's service as a deputy in the French Chamber during the Bourbon Restoration, this letter reflects his active involvement in public affairs and parliamentary life. In the text, Lafayette explains that his time has been occupied by political and legislative responsibilities before conveying his thanks and respectful sentiments to the recipient.

Historical Significance

Lafayette occupies a unique place in both American and French history:

Major General in the Continental Army

Trusted associate of George Washington

Hero of the American Revolution

Leader of the French National Guard

Influential liberal statesman during the Restoration era

Central figure in nineteenth-century Franco-American relations

This letter was written four years before Lafayette's celebrated Farewell Tour of the United States, when he was welcomed as the nation's last surviving major general of the Revolutionary War.

Details

Autograph Letter Signed (ALS)

Paris, 22 May 1820

Signed "Lafayette"

One manuscript page

Integral address panel

Original postal markings present

French language

Unpublished private correspondence

Condition

Very good antique condition with expected folds, age toning, postal wear, and minor seal-related paper loss. Signature remains bold and attractive.

Collector Appeal

An authentic signed manuscript of one of the most sought-after figures in American and French history. Complete Lafayette letters with postal markings and address panels are increasingly difficult to acquire and remain highly desirable among collectors of:

Revolutionary War manuscripts

French Revolution history

Early republic Americana

Political autographs

Franco-American history