The results of Lafayette's efforts for the cause of American Independence can hardly be estimated. They say enthusiasm is contagious and it seemed so in his case, for his very enthusiasm for the cause won others to it and gave it greater popularity in Europe than it would otherwise have had. In this country he improved the condition of the soldiers by his ready generosity, and raised the spirit of the army by his own example of disinterested patriotism. He gave Washington what he most needed, at that time, a friend whom he could trust implicitly, and by his loyalty did his share towards keeping the army undivided. The forces he secured from France encouraged our soldiers and the supplies did a good deal towards satisfying their discontent. By inducing France to acknowledge the United States of America, he did us one of the greatest services possible. We were then one of the world's nations, and our credit went up accordingly. It isn't likely that the results of his efforts as an American soldier and general, can ever be fully ascertained. He did so many little things just when they seemed to be so needed, that it is impossible to sum up their results. All we can say is that he did his best for the cause of American Independence.--_Report of Sons of the Revolution 1911-12._
General James Jackson was born in Morton Hampstead, in the beautiful English County of Devonshire. His father, James Jackson, died when he was a boy and left rather a large family. He heard much talk of the American Colonies and had a great desire to go and live in them. His mother and grandfather would not consent, and once he attempted to sail, hidden in the hold of a vessel, but was brought back. Seeing his determination to go, sooner or later, and influenced by John Wereat, a leading Whig, the family finally consented. Sailing at his earliest opportunity, he landed in Georgia; and at the age of fifteen began the study of law in the office of an eminent lawyer in Savannah.
In 1775, in the beginning of Revolutionary Days, he was one of the first lads to shoulder a musket for the cause of freedom. He distinguished himself in several skirmishes near Savannah. In 1776, Colonel Baker conducted an attack upon Tybee Island, where some of the enemy from Vessels-of-War were living, and they destroyed the buildings, and drove the enemy to their ships. In this attack, Jackson distinguished himself, winning therewith honors from the governor, and the thanks and admiration of the people.
