America has had a warm and close relationship with France while sharing common interests and strong ties in the fields of commerce, trade, politics, and education. America owes many of its founding moments to France, when the French lent their armaments and financial support for the American Revolution. America and France have further shared the financial burdens and loss of lives, as close allies, in both World Wars, the Gulf War, and the ongoing War Against Terrorism, for both countries' mutual benefit. The book written by Alexis de Tocqueville, "Democracy in America", was one of the most influential of the 19th century. France made a gift to America of the Statue of Liberty, which remains an important symbol of freedom. It is in this spirit the American Friends of Versailles moves forward, in support of international friendship and volunteerism.