On this episode of Inspired by History, Rebecca Barry and Nathan Raab discuss a letter written by the Marquis de Lafayette to James Madison from Mount Vernon in 1784. They delve into Lafayette's return to the United States after the Revolutionary War and his deep connections with key American figures, particularly George Washington. The letter, which is unpublished and has been in a private family collection for nearly a century, offers a unique glimpse into the personal and diplomatic relationships among America's Founding Fathers. The conversation highlights the significance of such documents in bringing history to life and the rarity of correspondence between Founders. For more information, visit: https://www.raabcollection.com/foreign-figures-autographs/lafayette-to-madison

00:00 Introduction to Inspired by History

00:31 Lafayette's Return to America

01:55 Lafayette & Washington

03:35 The Content and Context of the Letter

04:11 The Letter's Rarity

06:54 Lafayette's Legacy and Friendship with James Madison

09:00 Conclusion and Podcast Information