Question

A key conduit (outlet) of "enlightened" American political and moral ideas back to Europe came in the
form of
A. Returning British prisoners of war.
B. The hundreds of literate and influential French army and navy officers who had fought on the
American side during the Revolutionary War.
C. European nobles returning from expeditions to the new American frontier.
D. Missionary priests returning from evangelical campaigns deep in the U.S. back country.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The hundreds of literate and influential French army and navy officers who had fought on the American side during the Revolutionary War.

Explanation:

During the American Revolutionary War (1775 - 1783), many French officers actively supported the American cause against British rule. These officers were often well-educated, literate, and exposed to Enlightenment ideas that were influencing the American Revolution. The Enlightenment emphasized ideals such as individual rights, liberty, and representative government.

When these French officers returned to Europe after the war, they brought back not only military experiences but also the political and philosophical ideas that had inspired the American Revolution. Their first hand exposure to these ideals played a crucial role in disseminating "enlightened" American political and moral ideas across Europe.

Answer 2

B. The hundreds of literate and influential French army and navy officers who had fought on the American side during the Revolutionary War.

Explanation: The answer is B because during the Revolutionary War, a significant number of literate and influential French army and navy officers fought on the American side as allies. These individuals, such as the Marquis de Lafayette and other French officers, not only contributed militarily but also developed close ties with American leaders and absorbed Enlightenment ideals. After the war, they returned to Europe, taking with them the political and moral ideas that had influenced the American Revolution. Through their writings, discussions, and influence, these officers played a key role in spreading enlightened American political and moral ideas back to Europe.