http://www.zerohedge.com/news/2022-08-08/us-about-go-full-louis-xvi
I knew that France had supported the American's breakaway from Britain militarily. But I had NO idea that they bankrupted themselves in the effort, spending FIVE YEARS of tax revenues! That explains why the French fall and the US rise were contemporaneous. It also makes pretty clear that the US owed a debt of gratitude to the French king.
Fortunately, the French king had his head cut off AFTER the war, and not before.
The US is in a similar pickle right now. But at least we liberated Iraq, Afghanistan, and now Ukraine! Cheap at twice the price!