Lafayette (1759-1834) was a privileged young man from a fine French family. He had everything he could ever desire, but desired to defend his country by serving in the military. Unfortunately, his country thought he was too young at 19 to be an officer. When the British colonies in North America needed help in their fight for independence, Lafayette was instrumental in convincing the French government to provide troops, and convincing them to allow him to lead them. . In 1777 at the age of 19, he led troops from the ranks of the French military over to America. The Americans appreciated his noble connections to the King of France and his enthusiasm for their cause. He offered to serve without pay and was awarded the commission of major-general. WIth his vast wealth, he purchased supplies for the American troops. He became invaluable to General Washington as an advisor and military colleague. One of his greatest contributions to the war effort was leading his troops in the Battle of Yorktown where British General Cornwallis was trapped and forced to surrender. This was the last major battle of the American Revolution. This biography was easy to read and understand with good pictures. I would use it with middle school students (grades6-8), especially English learners and reluctant readers.