When Have Europeans Ever Appreciated America?

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I saw someone asking the above at, I believe, Rod Dreher's blog.  Well:

"The outpouring was perhaps even greater in France, where the good Dr. Franklin was especially revered. The National Assembly recalled his 'sublime mission' during the American Revolution, praised 'the charms of his mind,' and declared a belief that 'great men are the fathers of universal humanity.'

"The National Assembly's message was formally addressed to the U.S. Congress. It went on to proclaim that as the world rejoiced in America's liberty, 'the hour of the French has arrived...'" -- Madison and Jefferson, p. 217

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