Hermione Voyage Will Provide Living Maritime History Lesson

摘要

In March 1780, as the Revolutionary War raged, the French Concorde-class frigate Hermione set sail for America carrying young General Gilbert du Motier de Lafayette, more commonly known as Marquis de Lafayette, who bore news of French support and troops for the war effort. For the Continental Army, led by Lafayette's friend and mentor GEN George Washington, that was struggling to hold its own against the British, it was welcome aid, and has been pegged by historians as a turning point in the war. Two hundred thirty-five years later, the ship - or rather a faithful reproduction - will sail for America once again. In mid-April, Hermione is scheduled to leave France on a journey that not only will celebrate Lafayette's voyage and its significance, but provide a living history lesson highlighting the French contribution to the American Revolution during its 11 port calls along the U.S. East Coast from early June to mid-July. The ship will make a final stop in Nova Scotia, Canada, before its return trip to France.