A bust of Lafayette sculpted in 1790 by Jean-Antoine Houdon depicts his noble profile during the peak of his career and influence.
Marquis de La Fayette (1757-1834), a renowned military officer and politician, gained his place in history through his opposition to the nobiliary system that was abolished during the French Revolution. He changed his name to Lafayette in 1789 and became known by that name. Lafayette was a man of strong conviction, fighting in the American Revolutionary War, leading American troops in various battles, and being promoted to the rank of general by George Washington at the young age of 19. In 1781, he played a crucial role in the American victory at the battle of Yorktown, which led to the end of the British rule. Lafayette was highly respected in America and earned the nickname "the hero of both worlds." Upon his return to France, Lafayette actively participated in reforming the royal power and played a significant role in the French Revolution. He presented the first document of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen to France's National Constituent Assembly, a landmark event in history. Lafayette was appointed commander-in-chief of France's National Guard after the fall of Bastille, and he played a decisive role in the July Revolution of 1830.