Lived: 1757-1834 Gilbert du Motier, known in the United States as the Marquis de La Fayette, was a French soldier who aided the colonies of the United States in their struggle against Great Britain. Born into a noble family, La Fayette began his career in the military at the age of 14. By 19, the Marquis had become enraptured with the struggle of the colonies of Great Britain, as well as the chance to strike a blow against his homeland's greatest foe, and set sail for the New World in order to join up in Washington's army. La Fayatte repeatedly demonstrated his martial prowess. His participation at Barren Hill, the Battle of Brandywine and the Siege of Yorktown, the final battle of the American Revolution, plainly displayed his commitment to the cause of the American colonies and their ide