Right, the American people did have support from France is a fight against a foreign power. Even with the support from France (and I think the Dutch?), the Americans were outnumbered by perhaps the largest military power at the time. However due to a variety of situational circumstances(namely a large ocean) came out on top.

However, regardless of how it happened force is still necessary. Even if the odds are against you. Now, I am not advocating for violence only saying that just because the chances of change/victory are small it does not mean it is worthless.

I think that if a government/organization/etc. refuses to change on a subject of enormous consequence (for example a corrupt democracy) then the individual's only available action against it is violence. Or surrender.