A Lafayette Tribute: From a Revolutionary Alliance to a Modern Partnership

Join us for a morning celebrating the lasting impact of Franco-American military, scientific, and intellectual exchanges, first forged during the American Revolution. This special event, co-organized by the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and America 2026, marks the midpoint of the bicentennial of Lafayette’s farewell tour and looks ahead to the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.
Over three panels, renowned historians and experts will dive into the past, present, and future of the dynamic relationship between France and the United States. You’ll gain unique insights into the military, scientific, and intellectual collaborations that began in the 18th century and continue to shape our world today.
Agenda:

• 08:00 - 09:00 AM: Breakfast
• 09:00 - 09:05 AM: Opening remarks by H.E. Laurent Bili, Ambassador of France to the United States
• 09:05 - 09:10 AM: Introduction by Dr. Sylvette Tourmente, CNRS, and Dr. Iris de Rode, America 2026

• 09:15 - 10:00 AM: Panel 1: French-American cooperation from the American Revolution to the present, Major General Bertrand Jardin (French Defense Attache to the US) and Dr. Iris de Rode (University of Virginia)
• 10:20 - 11:05 AM: Panel 2: From the Montgolfiere to Space: Scientific exchanges from the American Revolution to the present, Dr. Larrie Ferreiro (George Mason University) and Aaron Lewis (Ariane Space)
• 11:25 - 12:10 PM: Panel 3: Intellectual exchanges from the American Revolution to the present, Dr. Laurent Dubois (University of Virginia) and Dr. Alain Philippe Durand (University of Arizona)

About CNRS:
The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) is one of the world’s leading research institutions. The CNRS scientists push the boundaries of knowledge to address today’s biggest challenges, from exploring the universe to understanding human societies.
About America 2026:
America 2026 is a four-year collaborative initiative examining the transatlantic legacies of the American Revolution, with a focus on the exchanges that continue to shape Franco-American relations.
Why attend?
This event offers a rare opportunity to engage with leading experts on the shared history of France and the United States. It’s also a moment to reflect on how this revolutionary partnership continues to evolve, impacting both nations on the world stage.

Host or Publisher CNRS & America 2026