First recognition of the American flag by a foreign government. The Continental Navy ship USS Ranger, commanded by Captain John Paul Jones, receiving the salute of the French fleet at Quiberon Bay, France, February 14, 1778. Earlier in the month, after receipt of news of the victory at Saratoga, France recognized the independence of the American colonies and signed a treaty of alliance with them. Painting by Edward Moran, 1898. (cropped and cleaned)