Elizabeth Monroe was a woman of calm dignity who disliked fanfare and social activity. However, her quiet personality did not stop her from helping to free Madame Adrienne de Noailles Lafayette, Marquise de Lafayette (1759- 1807), from execution in 1795.

Elizabeth Kortright Monroe was born on June 30, 1768. She came from a wealthy family that moved within a small social circle in New York City. Her father, Lawrence, supported the Tory party of Great Britain and wanted the American colonies to remain under British rule. By the time of the American Revolution (1775-83), he was established as a wealthy merchant. Earlier, he had been a privateer. A privateer was a private trader and merchant who was also licensed to carry arms and provide military support for a nation. Kortright traded with American, Indian, British, and French settlers in North America. If needed, he could serve as a civilian for...