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The first country to give a nine-gun salute to the American "Stars and Stripes" flag was France. This historical gesture occurred during a time when the United States was seeking to establish itself as a nation and build relationships with other countries. The nine-gun salute is a traditional military honor that reflects respect and recognition, and France's action signified its support and acknowledgment of American independence.

France's act was pivotal in cementing the diplomatic relationship between the two nations. The salute marked a significant moment in U.S. history, as it demonstrated that a prominent European power recognized and respected the United States as a sovereign entity. The importance of this salute extends beyond the military tradition; it encapsulates the spirit of the alliance between France and the United States, particularly during the Revolutionary War when France provided crucial support to the American colonies.

In contrast, the other countries listed may have had various forms of salutes or interactions with the United States but did not initiate the nine-gun salute to the American flag at this historical moment. France's gesture thus stands out as a defining moment in U.S. naval heritage and international relations.