This Day In History
JULY 31
1777: Marquis de Lafayette becomes a major general without pay
On this day in 1777 the Marquis de Lafayette became a major general in the Continental Army, opting to forgo any pay. Although he was only nineteen years old, Lafayette hoped to be George Washington's second in command. Congress was reluctant to promote Lafayette over more experienced American officers, but were so taken by his enthusiasm that they appointed the Frenchman a major general.
1777: Marquis de Lafayette becomes a major general without pay
On this day in 1777 the Marquis de Lafayette became a major general in the Continental Army, opting to forgo any pay. Although he was only nineteen years old, Lafayette hoped to be George Washington's second in command. Congress was reluctant to promote Lafayette over more experienced American officers, but were so taken by his enthusiasm that they appointed the Frenchman a major general.