How are they mercenaries if they volunteered ? Do you consider Lafayette and Von Steuben to be mercenaries ???
Actually an interesting question! I do not think there is a definition that would give a clear answer, but still let’s try:
Was Lafayette paid for his services? I suppose no.. so not mercenary.
Was France at war with the UK at the time? If so, we can consider him to be a part of French military attached to an ally?
How are they mercenaries if they volunteered ?
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You can see a brief statement from the “volunteers” here:
I distinctly hear “I’m against war”.. which brings up the question of just why they were there. The answer is money (and fun).
I cannot imagine Lafayette making this type of statement.