John Adams was a foundational figure of the American Revolution. A Harvard-educated lawyer from Massachusetts, Adams rose to prominence by opposing the 1765 Stamp Act, serving as a delegate to the First and Second Continental Congresses, and working to build the newly formed American navy. While sympathetic to the patriot cause, his belief in the rule of law led him to successfully defend British soldiers involved in the 1770 Boston Massacre. In Congress, he was instrumental in persuading delegates to declare independence, nominating George Washington as commander of the Continental Army, and playing a key role in drafting the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Later, he was central in negotiating the 1783 Treaty of Paris, which officially ended the Revolutionary War. Adams later authored the 1780 Massachusetts Constitution, influencing the future U.S. Constitution. He served as the first vice president under Washington and as the second president of the United States.
User:Soranin/Sandbox4: Difference between revisions
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== | ==Refs== | ||
*[https://www.pocketgamer.com/echoes-of-revolution/sugar-creative-interview-assassins-creed/ 1] | *[https://www.pocketgamer.com/echoes-of-revolution/sugar-creative-interview-assassins-creed/ 1] | ||
*[https://www.echoesofrevolution.com/ 2] | *[https://www.echoesofrevolution.com/ 2] | ||
=== | ==Links to check== | ||
===Existing=== | |||
*[[Alexander Hamilton]] [REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[American Revolution]] [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[Battle of Bunker Hill]] [REF Boston PR] | |||
*[[Battle of Yorktown]] [REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[Benjamin Franklin]] [REF Boston PR] | |||
*[[Boston]] [REF Boston PR] | |||
*[[British Army]] [REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[Charles Cornwallis]] [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[Crispus Attucks]] [REF Boston PR] | |||
*[[Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette]] [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[King's College]] [REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[Massachusetts]] [REF Boston PR] | |||
*[[Philadelphia]] [REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[Queens]] [REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[Siege of Yorktown]] [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[Thomas Jefferson]] [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[William Dawes]] [REF Boston PR] | |||
*[[Boston Common]] [REF Boston An American Navy][REF Boston Minutemen] | |||
*[[Boston Massacre]] [REF Boston Justice on Trial][REF Boston PR] | |||
*[[Boston Tea Party]] [REF Boston A Tea Party][REF Boston PR] | |||
*[[Bowling Green]] [REF NYC Tearing down the King] | |||
*[[Charles Grey, 1st Earl Grey]] [REF NYC Passing Judgment] | |||
*[[Connecticut]] [REF NYC Tearing down the King] | |||
*[[Continental Army]] [REF Boston PR][REF NYC Escaping Brooklyn][REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[Continental Congress]] [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*[[Continental Navy]] [REF Boston An American Navy][REF Boston PR] | |||
*[[Culper Ring]] [REF NYC Colonial House][REF NYC PR] | |||
*[[Declaration of Independence]] [REF NYC Tearing down the King] | |||
*[[East India Company]] [REF Boston A Tea Party] | |||
*[[Faneuil Hall]] [REF Boston The Flag] | |||
*[[Federal Hall]] [REF NYC Liberty Raised] | |||
*[[Fort George]] [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons][REF NYC Tearing down the King] | |||
*[[George III of the United Kingdom]] [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*[[George Washington]] [REF Boston PR][REF NYC Escaping Brooklyn][REF NYC Fire Suspects][REF NYC PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons][REF NYC The Turtle] | |||
*[[Great Fire of New York]] [REF NYC Fire Suspects] | |||
*[[Green Dragon Tavern]] [REF Boston Green Dragon] | |||
*[[Guy Carleton]] [REF NYC Fire Suspects] | |||
*[[John Hancock]] [REF Boston PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*[[Liberty Tree]] [REF Boston Liberty Tree (memory)] | |||
*[[Old South Meeting House]] [REF Boston A Tea Party][REF Boston Liberty Tree (memory)] | |||
*[[Old State House]] [REF Boston Justice on Trial] | |||
*[[Paul Revere]] [REF Boston A Light in the Dark][REF Boston PR] | |||
*[[Royal Navy]] [REF NYC The Turtle] | |||
*[[Rufus Putnam]] [REF NYC Defending the Hudson] | |||
*[[Samuel Adams]] [REF Boston PR][REF Boston The Flag] | |||
*[[South Carolina]] [REF NYC Passing Judgment] | |||
*[[Thomas Preston]] [REF Boston Justice on Trial] | |||
*[[West Point]] [REF NYC Colonial House] | |||
*[[William Howe]] [REF NYC Fire Suspects][REF NYC PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons][REF NYC The Turtle] | |||
*[[William Pitt the Elder]] [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
===Red links (?)=== | |||
*14th Continental Regiment (Marblehead regiment) [REF NYC PR] | |||
*1783 Treaty of Paris [REF Boston PR] | |||
*Caleb Brewster [REF NYC PR] | |||
*Cato (spy) [REF NYC PR] | |||
*Long Island [REF NYC PR] | |||
*Nathan Hale [REF NYC PR] | |||
*Abraham Woodhull [REF [[Database:_Culper_Ring]]][REF NYC Nine Men's Morris] | |||
The | *Agent 355 [REF [[Database:_Culper_Ring]]][REF [[Database:_Spy_network_and_secret_codes]]][REF NYC Colonial House] | ||
*Battle of Golden Hill (Mo) [REF NYC Liberty Raised] | |||
*Battle of Long Island [REF [[Contracts_(Colonial_Brotherhood)]]][REF [[Database:_...Two_Steps_Back]]][REF [[Database:_Charles_Lee]]][REF [[Database:_Israel_Putnam]]][REF NYC Defending the Hudson][REF NYC Escaping Brooklyn][REF NYC PR] | |||
*Benjamin Blagge [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*Boston King [REF NYC Passing Judgment] | |||
*Caesar Glover [REF NYC Escaping Brooklyn][REF NYC PR] | |||
*Charles Inglis [REF NYC Nine Men's Morris] | |||
*David Bushnell [REF NYC The Turtle] | |||
*Dunmore's Proclamation/Royal Ethiopian Regiment (Mo) [REF [[A_Fool%27s_Errand]]][REF [[Connor%27s_Way]]][REF [[Database:_George_Davidson]]][REF NYC Passing Judgment] | |||
*[[Evacuation Day]] [REF [[Database:_HMS_Jersey]]][REF [[Database:_Evacuation_Day]]][REF [[Evacuation_Day]]][REF NYC Passing Judgment] | |||
*Ezra Lee [REF NYC The Turtle] | |||
*Francis Lewis [REF NYC PR][REF NYC Supplying the Revolution (Echoes of the Revolution)] | |||
*Fraunces Tavern [REF [[Database:_Washington%27s_Resignation]]][REF NYC Passing Judgment] | |||
*Hanover Square [REF NYC Printing Pressure] | |||
*Hector de Crevecoeur [REF NYC Nine Men's Morris] | |||
*Hercules Mulligan [REF NYC Colonial House][REF NYC Liberty Raised][REF NYC PR] | |||
*HMS Eagle (1774) [REF NYC The Turtle] | |||
*HMS Phoenix (1759)/HMS Rose (1757) [REF NYC Defending the Hudson][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*Hudson River [REF NYC Colonial House][REF NYC Defending the Hudson] | |||
*Hugh Gaine (mo) [REF NYC Printing Pressure] | |||
*Hugh Montgomery [REF [[A_Trip_to_Boston]]][REF Boston Justice on Trial] | |||
*Isaac Sears [REF NYC PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons][REF NYC Tearing down the King] | |||
*James Lovell (Mo) [REF Boston Green Dragon] | |||
*James Otis [REF Boston Liberty Tree (memory)] | |||
*James Parker [REF NYC Printing Pressure] | |||
*James Rivington (Mo) [REF NYC Colonial House][REF NYC Printing Pressure][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*Jane Whitehouse (Mo) [REF Boston Justice on Trial] | |||
*John Adams [REF Boston Green Dragon][REF Boston Justice on Trial][REF Boston PR][REF [[Database:_Alcohol,_a_crucial_resource]]][REF [[Database:_The_Declaration_of_Independence]]][REF [[Man_of_Mettle]]] | |||
*John Baltus Dash [REF NYC Fire Suspects] | |||
*John Paul Jones [REF Boston An American Navy] | |||
*John Spurr [REF Boston A Tea Party] | |||
*Jon Jefferies (Mo) [REF Boston Justice on Trial] | |||
*Joseph Warren [REF Boston A Light in the Dark][REF Boston PR][REF [[Echoes_of_History]]] | |||
*Matthew Kilroy [REF Boston Justice on Trial] | |||
*Nova Scotia (Mo) [REF A LOT (others)][REF NYC Passing Judgment] | |||
*Paschal N. Smith [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*Patrick Carr (Mo) [REF Boston Justice on Trial] | |||
*Robert Murray [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*Royal Gazette [REF NYC Printing Pressure] | |||
*Samuel Birch [REF NYC Passing Judgment] | |||
*Samuel Loudon (mo) [REF NYC Printing Pressure][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*Stamp Act [REF NYC Liberty Raised][REF [[A_Trip_to_Boston]]][REF [[Database:_Benjamin_Franklin_(Assassin%27s_Creed_III)]]][REF [[Database:_City_Hall_(Rogue)]]][REF [[Database:_One_Step_Forward...]]][REF [[Database:_Stamp_Act]]][REF [[Echoes_of_History]]][REF Boston A Tea Party][REF Boston PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*Sullivan's Island [REF [[Contracts_(Colonial_Brotherhood)]]][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons] | |||
*Timothy Bigelow (soldier) [REF Boston Minutemen] | |||
*Turtle (submersible) [REF NYC The Turtle] | |||
*William Bowes [REF Boston Green Dragon] | |||
*William Moultrie (mo) [REF Boston The Flag] | |||
; | ==Navbox== | ||
The | {|class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" width="100%" style="border:1px solid #999999; -moz-border-radius:7.5px; border-radius:7.5px; text-align:center; clear:both; font-size:90%; font-family:Arial;" | ||
!style="background:#293b53; -moz-border-radius:3.25px; border-radius:3.25px;" align="center"|<div style="padding-right:3em; padding-left:6em;"><font color="white" style="font-size:13.5px; font-family:tahoma;">''Echoes of Revolution'' memories</font></div> | |||
|- | |||
! colspan="2" style="background:#293b53; font-size:100%; color:#ffffff;" |'''Boston memories''' | |||
|- | |||
|The Flag - An American Navy - Green Dragon - Minutemen - A Light in the Dark - A Tea Party - Liberty Tree (memory) - Justice on Trial | |||
|- | |||
! colspan="2" style="background:#293b53; font-size:100%; color:#ffffff;" |'''New York City memories''' | |||
|- | |||
|Passing Judgment - Defending the Hudson - Colonial House - Escaping Brooklyn - Fire Suspects - Supplying the Revolution (Echoes of Revolution) - Liberty Raised - Nine Men's Morris - Printing Pressure - Tearing down the King - The Turtle | |||
|- | |||
|} | |||
==Boston People of the Revolution== | |||
<tabber> | <tabber> | ||
|-|John Adams= | |-|John Adams= | ||
| Line 82: | Line 147: | ||
|-|John Hancock= | |-|John Hancock= | ||
John Hancock was an American merchant, statesman, and prominent Patriot leader during the American Revolution. Inheriting a massive fortune from his uncle, Hancock became one of New | John Hancock was an American merchant, statesman, and prominent Patriot leader during the American Revolution. Inheriting a massive fortune from his uncle, Hancock became one of New England's wealthiest men and used this wealth and influence to oppose British taxation policies. His defiance made him popular in Boston, particularly after customs officials seized his ship, the Liberty, in 1768 on charges of smuggling.<br><br>Hancock served as the President of the Second Continental Congress from 1775 to 1777, and after the war, he served as the first and third Governor of Massachusetts. He is best known for being the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence in 1776, doing so with a large, bold signature to defy King George III. | ||
|-|Thomas Jefferson= | |-|Thomas Jefferson= | ||
Thomas Jefferson was a pivotal figure in the American Revolution, acting as a leading intellectual, a political activist, and the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. Throughout the conflict, while he did not fight on the battlefield, he sought to transform the American colonies into a modern republic, advocating for the separation of church and state, the abolition of feudal inheritance laws, and widespread educational reform. As a delegate to the Second Continental Congress in 1776, the 33-year-old Virginian was tasked with drafting the document that justified the | Thomas Jefferson was a pivotal figure in the American Revolution, acting as a leading intellectual, a political activist, and the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. Throughout the conflict, while he did not fight on the battlefield, he sought to transform the American colonies into a modern republic, advocating for the separation of church and state, the abolition of feudal inheritance laws, and widespread educational reform. As a delegate to the Second Continental Congress in 1776, the 33-year-old Virginian was tasked with drafting the document that justified the colonies' break from Great Britain, articulating the foundational American ideals of ''"Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness"''. | ||
|-|Marquis de Lafayette= | |-|Marquis de Lafayette= | ||
| Line 91: | Line 156: | ||
|-|Paul Revere= | |-|Paul Revere= | ||
Paul Revere was a prominent Boston silversmith, industrialist, and dedicated Patriot. A leading member of the Sons of Liberty, Revere organized intelligence networks to monitor British troops and co-originated anti-British agitation, including taking part in the 1773 Boston Tea Party. During the war, Revere served in the Massachusetts Militia and manufactured gunpowder for the Continental Army.<br><br>He is most well known for his dramatic midnight ride on April 18, 1775, to warn colonists of advancing British forces. Following instructions, a ''"one if by land, two if by sea"'' signal was placed in the Old North Church, alerting Revere to the British route across the Charles River. Along with William Dawes and others, Revere spread the alarm from Boston to Lexington, enabling leaders John Hancock and Samuel Adams to escape and allowing militiamen to prepare for the crucial battles of Lexington and Concord. Though captured by a British patrol shortly after his ride, his mission was successful. This was later immortalized in Henry Wadsworth | Paul Revere was a prominent Boston silversmith, industrialist, and dedicated Patriot. A leading member of the Sons of Liberty, Revere organized intelligence networks to monitor British troops and co-originated anti-British agitation, including taking part in the 1773 Boston Tea Party. During the war, Revere served in the Massachusetts Militia and manufactured gunpowder for the Continental Army.<br><br>He is most well known for his dramatic midnight ride on April 18, 1775, to warn colonists of advancing British forces. Following instructions, a ''"one if by land, two if by sea"'' signal was placed in the Old North Church, alerting Revere to the British route across the Charles River. Along with William Dawes and others, Revere spread the alarm from Boston to Lexington, enabling leaders John Hancock and Samuel Adams to escape and allowing militiamen to prepare for the crucial battles of Lexington and Concord. Though captured by a British patrol shortly after his ride, his mission was successful. This was later immortalized in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's 1861 poem, ''"Paul Revere's Ride"'' transforming him into a lasting symbol of American independence and civic bravery. | ||
|-|Joseph Warren= | |-|Joseph Warren= | ||
| Line 101: | Line 166: | ||
</tabber> | </tabber> | ||
==Boston Mem== | |||
<!-- | |||
<tabber> | <tabber> | ||
|-|Banner= | |-|Banner= | ||
| Line 212: | Line 278: | ||
;Historical details | ;Historical details | ||
As war broke out between the American colonies and Great Britain, the Americans were forced to adjust and evolve their military. This was previously defined by informal militia but as events around Boston became more tense, many communities in Massachusetts began to create more elite regiments. \n\nTheir regiments trained more frequently and were expected to be ready quickly, “at a | As war broke out between the American colonies and Great Britain, the Americans were forced to adjust and evolve their military. This was previously defined by informal militia but as events around Boston became more tense, many communities in Massachusetts began to create more elite regiments. \n\nTheir regiments trained more frequently and were expected to be ready quickly, “at a minute's warning...” They became known as “Minute Men.” These regiments were made of men from all economic and racial backgrounds and formed the backbone of the Revolutionary forces.\n | ||
;Instructions | ;Instructions | ||
| Line 245: | Line 311: | ||
*Worm | *Worm | ||
**‘The Worm' was the name given to a corkscrew-shaped piece of metal which was used to extract any residual debris from the barrel of the soldier's musket when cleaning it. Every soldier had to carry one in order to keep the musket ready to use. | **‘The Worm' was the name given to a corkscrew-shaped piece of metal which was used to extract any residual debris from the barrel of the soldier's musket when cleaning it. Every soldier had to carry one in order to keep the musket ready to use. | ||
;Outcome | ;Outcome | ||
| Line 463: | Line 528: | ||
--> | --> | ||
===NYC=== | ==NYC People of the Revolution== | ||
<tabber> | |||
|-|Caesar Glover= | |||
Caesar was one of hundreds of sailors, White and Black, who helped the Continental Army escape from Brooklyn in 1776, enabling the rebellion to survive. Born in Africa, he was enslaved as a child and brought to North America.<br><br>Somehow, he earned his freedom, and in 1775 he joined the Revolution as part of the Marblehead regiment. This group of seamen manned the boats in the New Jersey and New York campaigns, including the famous crossing of the Delaware River. Black New Englanders like Caesar were among the Continental Army's first recruits, 150 of whom carried Washington's troops from Brooklyn Heights to Peck Slip in August 1776. The amateur military, greatly outnumbered, was badly defeated in Long Island. But they were saved by a thick fog, an early historian writing that no one in the region could remember any such weather “within the space of twenty or thirty years\". If not for the skill of mariners like Caesar, military historians agree, no more than half of the decimated rebel army would have escaped. | |||
|-|Nathan Hale= | |||
Nathan Hale is one of the American Revolution's most famous spies and one of its earliest martyrs. Having volunteered to stay in New York after the Battle of Long Island in order to pass information to the Revolutionary cause, the 21-year-old Patriot was hanged by the occupying British government on September 22, 1776. This underscored the importance of effective espionage practices for the rebels. <br><br>Alongside George Washington's spy ring on Long Island, intelligence-gathering was far more commonly done by everyday unsung heroes of the cause. Knowledge is typically passed mouth to mouth, through both formal and informal communication networks. Waitresses overhearing conversation between officers in a tavern passed information on to rebel informants. Slaves moving goods from city to country reported on the British army's health. Families permitted to cross battlefield lines to visit relatives shared observations in conversation and correspondence.\n | |||
|-|Alexander Hamilton= | |||
Alexander Hamilton was one of George Washington's trusted advisers during the American Revolution and the first Secretary of the Treasury of the United States. Born in 1757 in the West Indies, he was orphaned at the age of 11. His cleverness showed early, and his employers pooled their money to send him to university. Hamilton moved to New York in 1773 and began attending King's College (later Columbia University). By 1774, he was writing pro-rebel articles, and by 1775 he'd joined the volunteer militia to oppose the British. \n \nIn 1776 he formed his own artillery company, becoming a captain, before being appointed as aide-de-camp to Washington in 1777. A skilled military commander, his leadership was decisive in the Battle of Yorktown. After the war Hamilton went on to become a respected statesman, representing New York and the nation in the preservation of the principles of the revolution and formation of the new government. | |||
|-|William Howe= | |||
William Howe was the commander in chief of the British Army in North America (1776–78). Despite several military successes, he was unable to destroy the Continental Army and stem the American Revolution.\n \nWilliam Howe had been active in North America during the French and Indian War a few years earlier, where he earned a reputation as one of the army's most brilliant young generals. He initially captured New York in 1776 when the British defeated the Americans at the Battle of Long Island and later led the campaign to capture Philadelphia. These victories were, however, not enough to defeat Washington's armies, and he resigned in 1778 to return to Britain. | |||
|-|Thomas Jefferson= | |||
Thomas Jefferson was a pivotal figure in the American Revolution, acting as a leading intellectual, a political activist, and the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. Throughout the conflict, while he did not fight on the battlefield, he sought to transform the American colonies into a modern republic, advocating for the separation of church and state, the abolition of feudal inheritance laws, and widespread educational reform. As a delegate to the Second Continental Congress in 1776, the 33-year-old Virginian was tasked with drafting the document that justified the colonies' break from Great Britain, articulating the foundational American ideals of \"Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness\".\n | |||
|-|Marquis de Lafayette= | |||
Marquis de Lafayette was a French aristocrat and military officer who played a crucial role in the American Revolution, acting as a vital link between the American colonies and France. Inspired by the American cause of liberty, the 19-year-old defied King Louis XVI and traveled to America in 1777, volunteering to serve without pay. \n \nHe quickly formed a close bond with George Washington and was commissioned as a major general in the Continental Army. Lafayette proved his bravery and skill in battle and was wounded in action. This led him to return to France and lobby for increased military aid, successfully securing French troops and supplies for the colonies. Returning to America in 1781, he led American forces against Lord Cornwallis in Virginia, setting the stage for the decisive American-French victory at the Siege of Yorktown. | |||
|-|Francis Lewis= | |||
Francis Lewis was a Welsh-born merchant and patriot who signed the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation. As a dedicated radical in New York, he served in the Stamp Act Congress and was a member of the Committee of Sixty and the New York Provincial Congress before joining the Continental Congress from 1775 to 1779. <br><br>During the Revolutionary War, Lewis utilized his commercial experience to help secure supplies for the Continental Army, particularly through his work on the Continental Board of Admiralty. His commitment to the patriot cause came at a high personal cost. Following the Battle of Long Island in 1776, British forces destroyed his estate in Queens and imprisoned his wife. While she was later released in a prisoner exchange, the harsh conditions of her captivity severely affected her health, leading to her death in 1779. Devastated by his wife's death, Lewis subsequently retired from politics, leaving Congress in 1779 and retiring completely by 1781. | |||
|-|Hercules Mulligan= | |||
Hercules Mulligan was a vital spy for the Continental Army and a dedicated patriot during the American Revolution. Raised in New York City, he was an early member of the Sons of Liberty and a close associate of Alexander Hamilton, whom he mentored and introduced to revolutionary ideals. Working as a successful tailor, Mulligan cultivated relationships with high-ranking British Officers, allowing him to gather crucial intelligence directly from the enemy. Despite the dangers of operating within British-occupied New York, he operated as a confidential correspondent for George Washington, supplying information that helped shape the war's outcome. <br><br>Mulligan is credited with saving Washington's life on two occasions by revealing plots to capture him. Even after being suspected of spying and briefly arrested, he continued his intelligence work with the help of his enslaved assistant, Cato. Following the war, Washington solidified Mulligan's reputation as a patriot by having breakfast with him shortly after the British evacuation of New York. | |||
|-|Isaac Sears= | |||
Isaac Sears was the public face of the Sons of Liberty in New York City, the second and perhaps most active chapter in the colonies. He was a prosperous merchant, like so many leaders of the underground rebel group. During the mid-1700s, he made fine income as a privateer, hunting the ships of imperial rivals for the British. Only when the Sugar Act brought an end to his trade in the West Indies did the sea captain turn against Britain. During the revolution he was a member of the Committee of Sixty and was involved in raids on British troops and in the destruction of Loyalist property throughout New York City. | |||
|-|Anna Strong= | |||
Anna Smith Strong was the only recorded female member of the Culper Spy Ring, a secret network established to gather intelligence for General George Washington in British-occupied New York. Living in Setauket, Long Island, she utilized her position to pass messages while avoiding suspicion, partly because her relatives were Loyalists. <br><br>Strong's fame stems from the ingenious clothesline code which she used to signal Caleb Brewster, a courier who transported intelligence across the Long Island Sound. When a message was ready to be picked up, she would hang a black petticoat on her clothesline, clearly visible from across the bay. She would add a specific number of white handkerchiefs to indicate which of the six designated coves Brewster should use to meet his contact. | |||
|-|George Washington= | |||
George Washington was the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution. Tasked with fighting a superior British force, Washington formed the colonial militias into a disciplined fighting force. Despite losing more battles than he won, his resilience, strategic retreats, and crucial victories, such as the final victory at Yorktown, secured American independence. \n \nUnanimously elected, Washington served as president from 1789 to 1797, where he implemented a strong, well-financed national government, including the creation of a national bank. His dedication to civilian control of the military, together with his voluntary retirement after two terms, helped secure the stability of American democracy. | |||
</tabber> | |||
==NYC Mem== | |||
<!-- | |||
<tabber> | |||
|-|Birch= | |||
;Passing Judgment | |||
You are at Fraunces Tavern. In 1783, as the war came to an end, a joint British and American commission overseen by Brigadier General Birch convened here to review the claims of Black Loyalist ex-slaves seeking freedom and evacuation with the British Army. Boston King was one of these ex slaves. In this memory he presents his case to the panel to obtain a certificate of freedom.<br><br>Enter the streets of revolutionary era New York and head from City Hall towards Fraunces Tavern. | |||
;Historical details | |||
In 1783, as the British prepared to evacuate New York at the end of the Revolutionary War, the city became the site of a tense and historic reckoning. During the conflict, British commanders had promised freedom to enslaved people who escaped Patriot owners and joined their lines, and thousands sought refuge in British occupied New York. <br><br>When peace was declared, American officials demanded the return of formerly enslaved people under the terms of the Treaty of Paris. To address the crisis, British authorities convened hearings at Fraunces Tavern, overseen by Brigadier General Samuel Birch. There, formerly enslaved Black Loyalists petitioned to prove they had served the British cause and were entitled to evacuation. These proceedings, later called the Birch trials, required testimony about military service and escape. Those who qualified had their names entered into what became known as the Book of Negroes and were granted passage to Nova Scotia and other parts of the British Empire. <br><br>More than 3,000 ultimately departed New York under British protection. For many, the evacuation marked the beginning of a new and uncertain chapter, but it also represented one of the earliest large scale emancipations in American history, unfolding in the final days of British rule in the city. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
During the Birch Trials, the board evaluated the case for emancipation of ex-slaves. <br><br>Present Boston King's case by showing the needed evidence | |||
Questions | |||
The officer will ask you questions. You need to provide the right piece of evidence to answer him. | |||
Presenting Evidence | |||
Tap on the haversack button to examine the items you can present as evidence. \n \nTap on an item to submit it for review. | |||
;What happens | |||
*'''British Officer:''' [start] ''Good day, Boston King. I hope you are keeping well in these trying times. These trials are intended to enable us to demonstrate your suitability to receive a Certificate of Freedom. The certificate will give you passage to Nova Scotia and a new life. There are three questions to address. Let us begin.'' | |||
Evidence: | |||
*Pay Records | |||
**[Details] I managed to keep hold of my pay records despite the chaos of the war. Hopefully this will help.\n-\nCharles Town, the 1st Day of August, 1782 Received of the Paymaster of His Majesty's Forces, the sum of Eight Shillings, being one week's pay for Boston King, a Negro man employed with the troops in military duty and camp service. \nThe said Boston King having come within the British Lines and since served with the Army, is to receive the above allowance, or the equivalent in provisions, clothing, or other necessaries, as available. \nSigned, Deputy Paymaster\n | |||
**[Boston King comment] These are my pay records from the army. | |||
*Letter from Captain Grey | |||
**[Details] I was given this letter from Captain Grey who I served under in the New York Volunteers.\n-\nI do hereby certify that Boston King, a Negro man, having formerly come within the British Lines in South Carolina, hath for some time served with me in the New York Volunteers, and hath conducted himself with fidelity and good behavior. \nGiven under my hand this fifteenth day of October, 1783. \nCaptain Grey, New York Volunteers\n | |||
**[Boston King comment] I was given this letter from Captain Grey. | |||
*A Herbal Remedy | |||
**[Details] Using powdered yarrow root to help cuts and wounds heal was something that my mother taught me. She was so knowledgeable about herbal remedies having learned from the Native Americans in South Carolina. <br><br>Her literacy and love of learning have been a constant inspiration and I hope one day to be able to write an account of my life. | |||
**[Boston King comment] I carried herbal remedies like this throughout the war. | |||
*My British Uniform | |||
**[Details] Though I started out as a servant to the British officers it wasn't long before I found myself in the uniform of the brave New York Volunteers. <br><br>As a former slave, I was often assigned the most dangerous missions. It was in 1781 when I was sent alone to gather reinforcements when my battalion was under siege at Nelson's Ferry. I narrowly avoided capture and returned to a hero's welcome. | |||
**[Boston King comment] This is my uniform from the New York Volunteer British regiment. | |||
*Dunmore's Proclamation | |||
**[Details] Dunmore's Proclamation promises me freedom in exchange for the service that I have given as a Loyalist.<br><br>I was a young man when Loyalist forces seized Charlestown in May 1780 and I determined to throw myself into the hands of the English. They received me readily, and I began to feel the happiness of liberty. The impact of the Proclamation has been huge, 500 slaves left the day it was made and over 5,000 have since done so. | |||
**[Boston King comment] Dunmore's Proclamation promises me my freedom. | |||
*My Carpenters Tools | |||
**[Details] I was 16 years old when I first apprenticed to a carpenter. He treated me very cruelly, and I was subject to frequent beating whenever a tool was misplaced. I was fortunate that my previous owner heard of my hardships and came to speak to him about my treatment.<br><br>The skills I learned there, no matter how unpleasantly, have enabled me to work for the British and the cause of my own Liberty\n | |||
**[Boston King comment] These are the tools I used when I was a slave. | |||
*'''British Officer:''' [1st question] ''What proof can you bring that you were in His Majesty's Service or Loyal to the Crown and its officers?'' | |||
*'''British Officer:''' [1st answer] ''Very good. Your service in the British Army is ample evidence.'' | |||
*'''British Officer:''' [2nd question] ''Have you evidence to confirm your arrival at his Majesty's garrison prior to November, 1782?'' | |||
*'''British Officer:''' [2nd answer] ''Yes, that pay record demonstrates when you were serving.'' | |||
*'''British Officer:''' [3rd question] ''Can you show that you are not known to be a man of bad behavior?'' | |||
*'''British Officer:''' [3rd answer] ''Captain Grey clearly declares you of good character.'' | |||
*'''British Officer:''' [Some wrong] ''I think that's just enough evidence to get that certificate.'' | |||
*'''British Officer:''' [All correct] ''Congratulations Sir. Your service qualifies you for a Certificate of Freedom.'' | |||
;Outcome | |||
*Certificate of Freedom | |||
In September 1783, Boston King was declared free and forever emancipated by order of Sir Guy Carleton. He was permitted to depart with the Black Loyalists for Nova Scotia. | |||
;Log | |||
I presented my case to the Birch trials panel at Fraunces Tavern.\nI obtained a certificate of freedom and was able to leave with the evacuating British. | |||
|-|Cannons= | |||
;Defending the Hudson | |||
Near this spot, in 1776 the Battery fortifications overlooked the Hudson. At the time, American forces had taken control of New York, and the British Navy blockaded the harbor. Join the soldiers at the Battery under the command of Rufus Putnam, man the cannon, and do what you can to stop the British ships coming up the river. <br><br>Enter the revolutionary era Battery fort and take up your position at a cannon. | |||
;Historical details | |||
By the summer of 1776, revolutionary forces controlled Manhattan, but the harbor told a different story. Hundreds of British ships filled New York Harbor, carrying tens of thousands of soldiers in the largest amphibious invasion of the eighteenth century. <br><br>General George Washington had cannons dragged into position near here to stop the British ships. On October 17, lookouts spotted HMS Phoenix and HMS Rose pushing up the Hudson. American batteries opened fire, but the ships broke through with little damage. Panic spread across the city, and Washington's supply and communication lines were suddenly exposed. The Revolution in New York began not with victory, but with uncertainty and fear, as the city became the central battleground of the war. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
Under the command of Rufus Putnam, you must man a cannon at the Battery and shoot the British ships as they attempt to sail up the Hudson River. | |||
Aiming and Firing | |||
Drag the slider at the bottom of the screen to aim the cannon.<br><br>Tap the fire button to fire. | |||
Reloading | |||
After each shot, you must reload. Tap on the screen when the triangle touches the bar to load, then repeat to ram and prime the cannon. | |||
;What happens | |||
*'''Rufus Putnam:''' [Start] ''Stand and ready your guns. The Phoenix will come from the left!'' | |||
*'''Rufus Putnam:''' [first shot] ''If they get past our fortifications, they will be able to cut our supply and communication lines.'' | |||
*'''Rufus Putnam:''' [first reload] ''Take your time and make the shots count. America is watching your aim!'' | |||
*'''Rufus Putnam:''' [second ship] ''Look to your left, there is the Rose. Focus on her and aim for the waterline!'' | |||
*'''Rufus Putnam:''' [third ship] ''There is another on the left! We're cutting them up, but I'm not sure it's going to be enough.'' | |||
*'''Rufus Putnam:''' [ships out of view] ''Good shooting. Hopefully the batteries further upriver will be able to finish the job.'' | |||
;Outcome | |||
*Hudson Breached! | |||
|- | Despite your efforts, the British ships have broken through and sailed up the Hudson. The batteries further up the river will have to stop them now. | ||
| | |||
;Log | |||
At the Battery I took control of a cannon and tried to stop the British ships coming up the river.\nDespite my best efforts and some good shooting I couldn't stop the British Navy. | |||
|-|House= | |||
;Colonial House | |||
Not far from here, in 1781, British officers were billeted in the grand houses lining Broadway during the occupation of New York. Join Washington's Culper Spy Ring and use your role working in one of these houses to secretly gather information that could help the war.<br><br>Enter the streets of revolutionary era New York and head down revolutionary era Broadway towards a British occupied house. | |||
;Historical details | |||
Between 1776 and 1783 New York became a center of espionage! The most famous American spy network, known as the Culper Ring, reported directly to George Washington and relied on informants across the region. British officers were often billeted in private homes, living alongside civilian families, which blurred the line between public war and private life. While American men such as the merchant and tailor Hercules Mulligan played important roles, much of the intelligence gathering depended on women, both free and enslaved, whose daily work allowed them to move through the city with less suspicion. <br><br>Domestic labor placed women in kitchens, parlors, markets, and streets where British officers spoke openly. They could observe troop movements, overhear conversations, and quietly pass along information through coded messages and trusted couriers. In a city filled with checkpoints and patrols, ordinary routines became acts of resistance. In occupied New York, intelligence gathered inside homes and boarding houses helped shape Washington's decisions and influence the course of the war. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
Agent 355, a member of Washington's Culper Ring, secretly gathered information on the British for the Revolution. <br><br>Search through the house and carefully gather important military intelligence from amongst the soldiers' items. | |||
Detection | |||
Your presence must go unnoticed. Avoid creaky floorboards and don't spend too long in the room, or suspicion will grow.\nWatch the suspicion indicator on your screen. If it fills up, it will be too dangerous to continue and the mission will end. | |||
Crucial Intel | |||
Tap on highlighted items around the room to inspect them.<br><br>Review the information and only take relevant intel as each piece you take will raise your suspicion meter. | |||
;What happens | |||
Items: | |||
*Fuel request | |||
This letter details the problems of getting suitable firewood. Soldiers sent out of the city to source it were ambushed by revolutionary troops. The letter contains a request to requisition additional supplies for the stores as the weather grows colder.<br><br>This is proof of the effectiveness of our current strategy. | |||
*Troop distribution | |||
This is a dispatch detailing the movement of several hundred soldiers from the city to the Caribbean to deal with unrest there. <br><br>The weakening of the defenses in New York could prove essential intelligence for General Washington and his aim of retaking the city. | |||
*Pass to New York | |||
This is an official military pass granting the bearer the ability to leave the city and travel through the checkpoints in the surrounding area. <br><br>With the city under the control of the British Army, all movement of people in and out is carefully controlled - this could be a great help to our spies in the city. | |||
*Map of Westpoint | |||
This is a military plan of our defenses at West Point. It shows the defenses and the chain used to obstruct British navigation of the Hudson. <br><br>This may be normal planning, but it could also signal that General Washington is correct and the British do plan to attack! | |||
*Rivingtons paper | |||
Ha, it's not surprising that they are reading the Royal Gazette. <br><br>Rivington is nothing more than the King's mouthpiece and I'm sure these soldiers lap up his lies. | |||
*A shopping list | |||
Tobacco, soap, leather blacking, claret, new stockings... <br><br>This is nothing more than the shopping list of one of the officers. We'll not gain any insights from this. | |||
*A letter home | |||
! | I hope the house is faring well. Please send my kind respects to my loving Wife & Child and all Enquiring friends... <br><br>A letter home from one of the officers here will not help us. I hope he can deliver it in person when he departs! | ||
*'''Muffled British Officers:''' [QuarterDetection] ''... well personally I don't think they have much of a chance. They're farmers, not soldiers ...'' | |||
| | *'''Muffled British Officers:''' [HalfDetection] ''... it's not really about Liberty, it's simply the question whether the colonies shall or shall not be subject to the legislature of Great Britain ...'' | ||
*'''Muffled British Officers:''' [ThreeQuarterDetection] ''... it's a tragedy that we must sacrifice so many brave lives, in order to put an end to such an unnatural rebellion ...'' | |||
*'''Muffled British Officers:''' [Noise 1] ''What was that?'' | |||
*'''Muffled British Officers:''' [Noise 2] ''Did you hear something?'' | |||
*'''Muffled British Officers:''' [Noise 3] ''My ears must be playing tricks on me.'' | |||
*'''Agent 355:''' [Start] ''I'm going to need to be as silent as the grave or I might just end up in one.'' | |||
*'''Agent 355:''' [Floorboard] ''I need to watch out for creaky floorboards!'' | |||
*'''Agent 355:''' [useless intel] ''I'm not sure this is going to help us win the war.'' | |||
*'''Agent 355:''' [Good intel] ''That's exactly what we need. With this Washington will be able to outwit them all.'' | |||
*'''Agent 355:''' [end] ''I can't risk anything more, or they are sure to find me.'' | |||
*'''Agent 355:''' [End all gathered] ''I think I've found everything of use!'' | |||
;Outcome | |||
*Intel Gathered | |||
This is the intel vital for the revolutionary cause. Gathered from under the noses of the British Officers. | |||
;Log | |||
Working for Washington's Culper Spy Ring I used my role working in one of these houses to secretly gather information that could help the Revolution. | |||
|-|Escaping= | |||
;Escaping Brooklyn | |||
The remnants of Washington's forces landed near here in 1776, after a devastating defeat on Long Island, having evaded the British navy and escaped under the cover of darkness. Crew a ship carrying Caesar Glover and his soldiers, in order to help them evacuate before it is too late.<br><br>Enter the docks of revolutionary era New York to guide the ship back to harbor. | |||
;Historical details | |||
In August 1776, nearly 9,000 soldiers evacuated Manhattan in small boats. The Revolution had nearly collapsed. British forces overwhelmed the Continental Army on Long Island in the largest battle of the war. By August 29, George Washington and thousands of soldiers were trapped in Brooklyn, pinned against the East River with the Royal Navy blocking escape. If the army were captured, the rebellion might end before it had truly begun. <br><br>As night fell, a daring plan took shape. Under cover of darkness and aided by a thick fog that rolled in before dawn, soldiers began evacuating across the river in small boats. Experienced mariners from the region, including White, Black, and Native seafarers, quietly ferried troops to Manhattan while British warships sat unaware in the harbor. All night long, men, horses, and supplies crossed the water in near silence. <br><br>By morning, thousands of soldiers had escaped without detection. It was not a battlefield victory, but it was decisive. The survival of Washington's army ensured that the Revolution would continue, and New York became the setting for one of the war's most dramatic escapes. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
The Continental Army and Caesar Glover escaped Brooklyn. <br><br>Navigate to the highlighted area on the Manhattan docks without being detected. | |||
Steer the ship by drawing a circle on your screen to rotate the wheel. Drag the sail bar up or down to control speed. | |||
Detection
| |||
On the left of your screen is a detection meter that will begin to fill if you are spotted. <br><br>Avoid detection by the British ships by steering away from their search lights or by hiding in the clouds of fog. | |||
;What happens | |||
*'''Caesar Glover:''' [Start] ''Take the utmost care. If the British see us, they will be on us in a moment. We will need both our wits and bravery to make it over. Good luck.'' | |||
*'''Caesar Glover:''' [quarterProgress] ''We are fortunate that it is so dark. The British can scarcely discern a man at six yards distance tonight.'' | |||
*'''Caesar Glover:''' [halfProgress] ''If this fog lifts, we are done for sure. We will have to trust in fate.'' | |||
*'''Caesar Glover:''' [threequarterProgress] ''We are almost there! Hold fast!'' | |||
*'''Caesar Glover:''' [DetectionEnd] ''Watch out! That's a British ship! We'll have to retreat and try again.'' | |||
*'''Caesar Glover:''' [RockEnd] ''Watch out! That will sink us!'' | |||
*'''Caesar Glover:''' [SuccessEnd] ''We made it! Well done. I thought I was done for sure.'' | |||
;Outcome | |||
*Escape successful! | |||
You crossed the East River and avoided detection by British ships. You were fortunate that it was so dark and full of fog or you were sure to have been seen!<br><br>Congratulations on successfully evacuating from Brooklyn. It was a desperate moment for the Revolution | |||
;Log | |||
I screwed a ship past the British blockade and helped Caesar Glover evacuate before it was too late. | |||
|-|Fire= | |||
;Fire Suspects | |||
In 1783, with the British still in control of New York, Sir Guy Carleton commissioned an investigation into the causes of the devastating fire of 1776. The inquiry brought officers to this very spot you are now standing on to question those present at the time. Speak to people present at the time of the fire, help prepare an investigation, and accuse someone of being the cause.<br><br>Enter the streets of revolutionary era New York that were destroyed by the fire and begin questioning the suspects. | |||
;Historical details | |||
On September 20, 1776, just days after British forces captured New York, a massive fire broke out and spread rapidly across lower Manhattan. Fueled by wooden buildings and strong winds, the flames destroyed nearly one fifth of the city. Churches, homes, warehouses, and vital infrastructure were reduced to ashes. <br><br>As autumn approached, thousands of residents including Loyalists, British soldiers, formerly enslaved people seeking refuge, and civilians caught between loyalties were left homeless. Much of the city became a patchwork of tents and temporary shelters, reshaping life in British occupied New York for the rest of the war. Suspicion quickly followed. British authorities arrested several individuals, accusing revolutionaries of setting the blaze to sabotage the occupation. <br><br>In 1783, just weeks before evacuating the city, Commander in Chief Sir Guy Carleton ordered another investigation. Officials reported possible incendiary evidence and conflicting eyewitness testimony, but no definitive cause was proven. Historians continue to debate whether the fire was accidental or deliberate. The Great Fire of 1776 remains one of the most destructive disasters in New York's history and a stark reminder that the Revolution unfolded not only in battles, but in a city divided by fear and uncertainty. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
You must investigate and decide upon who caused the great fire of New York for the Carleton Commission. Do this by questioning three key suspects. | |||
Talking | |||
The key suspects are: British General William Howe, American General George Washington, and New York fire chief John Baltus Dash.<br><br>Tap on them to ask questions and learn about the fire. | |||
New information | |||
Each new piece of information unlocks further lines of questioning. | |||
Notes | |||
Tap the notes icon at any time to re-examine any of the suspects' answers. | |||
Accusing | |||
When you feel you have enough information to make a conclusion you can accuse one of the suspects of causing the fire by tapping on them and selecting 'Accuse'. | |||
;What happens | |||
*'''Player:''' ''Tell me about yourself, Mr Dash.'' | |||
*'''John Baltus Dash:''' ''I'm John Baltus Dash, a veteran firefighter. I worked to protect the city during the fire. I managed to protect much of the city from the fire, including St Paul's.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you think about Howe?'' | |||
*'''John Baltus Dash:''' ''His men often act like drunken louts. I've seen badly attended cook fires that got out of control.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you think about Washington?'' | |||
*'''John Baltus Dash:''' ''I heard that Washington was talking about how he wanted the city to burn down.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you think about the buildings that were destroyed?'' | |||
*'''John Baltus Dash:''' ''The British soldiers helped take out some buildings to stop the spread of the fire. Without that I think the other half of the city would be gone.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you know about the incendiaries that were found?'' | |||
*'''John Baltus Dash:''' ''There were incendiaries scattered all over. Whoever did this wanted to start the fire in multiple spots at once.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''How do you explain your hidden stash of valuables?'' | |||
*'''John Baltus Dash:''' ''Of course I knew the fire was coming. The whole place is a tinderbox. Why wouldn't I hide my valuables?'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''Tell me about yourself, Mr Howe.'' | |||
*'''William Howe:''' ''I'm William Howe, a British general. I am the commander-in-chief of the British Army in North America in charge of New York.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you think about Dash?'' | |||
*'''William Howe:''' ''I saw him burying his valuables before the fires even broke out. It's very suspicious, like he knew the fire was coming, but he didn't warn anyone.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you think about Washington?'' | |||
*'''William Howe:''' ''That man was definitely up to something. He had all the bells removed from the city. It meant that when the fire broke out, my men weren't alerted until later. I think he planned it!'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you know about the badly attended cook fires?'' | |||
*'''William Howe:''' ''My men's training is exceptional, and they are the finest infantry in the world. Sometimes they like to drink and rough house. It's not caused any real issues before.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you think about the plundering that took place?'' | |||
*'''William Howe:''' ''That's a serious accusation. I sincerely hope you have substantial evidence of my men doing such a thing. Before you continue to repeat those rumors.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''Tell me about yourself, Mr Washington.'' | |||
*'''George Washington:''' ''I'm George Washington, the commander of the Continental Army.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you think about Dash?'' | |||
*'''George Washington:''' ''All the water buckets had their handles cut off. Shoddy handling and protecting of his equipment. What is he playing at?'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you think about Howe?'' | |||
*'''George Washington:''' ''His men were plundering houses the flames hadn't even reached yet! Not to mention the amount of patriots they've arrested under the guise of this \"fire\". Clearly they did this to line their own pockets and lower our numbers.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''How do you feel about the fire?'' | |||
*'''George Washington:''' ''I don't deny that I am pleased the city has burnt down. The loyalists have done us a great service; however, it was not me that did it.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you know about the church bells that were removed?'' | |||
*'''George Washington:''' ''Yes, I had the bells moved to be melted down into cannons. But that was planned months ago; it has nothing to do with the fires.'' | |||
*'''Player:''' ''What do you think about the buildings that were destroyed?'' | |||
*'''George Washington:''' ''Those loyalists were smashing perfectly good houses to bits. The flames weren't anywhere near them!'' | |||
;Outcome | |||
*Accused: John Baltus Dash | |||
You have accused the Fire Chief of starting the fire. He buried his own valuables before the fire broke out, suggesting he knew what was coming, and, despite being a known loyalist, he didn't inform the British. His behavior is suspicious, but the evidence is circumstantial and not conclusive. | |||
*Accused: General William Howe | |||
You have accused the British forces of causing the fire, either through malice or incompetence. While British troops were seen looting buildings and numerous Revolutionary supporters were later arrested, the evidence against them remains circumstantial and inconclusive. | |||
*Accused: General George Washington | |||
You have accused the Revolutionary forces of being involved in deliberately starting the fire. General Washington's outspoken desire to deny the British the city, the presence of unexploded incendiaries, and the removal of church bells by American soldiers all point to planned sabotage - but the evidence remains circumstantial and inconclusive. | |||
;Log | |||
I spoke to people involved in the Great Fire of 1776. I successfully assisted with the investigation into the cause but could not conclusively identify the cause. | |||
|-|Lewis= | |||
;Supplying the Revolution | |||
In 1776, the large houses here along Broadway were used as locations to plan how to get supplies across the Atlantic. American forces were experiencing significant supply issues that threatened the course of the Revolution. With battles against British forces imminent and gunpowder supplies running low, work with Francis Lewis to plot a safe route.<br><br>Enter the docks of revolutionary era New York to begin planning the shipping route.<br><br>This memory has been created in partnership with the Welsh Government. | |||
;Historical details | |||
The Revolution was almost lost, not with a grand battle or cunning act of espionage, but with a shortage of supplies. When George Washington took command in 1775, he discovered the evolutionary army had a critical shortage of supplies. The shortages included food, clothing, and weaponry, however the most critical was with Gunpowder. With only 38 barrels of gunpowder, equivalent to just nine rounds per soldier, in the stores they were almost unable to fight the British. <br><br>America lacked the natural deposits of saltpeter that was needed to create their own and as a result they were reliant on imports, largely from their allies in France. These supplies were largely shipped across the Atlantic then via French colonies in the Caribbean. These routes sought to avoid the British blockades and seizures, a process that required a deep understanding of international shipping. <br><br>The newly formed American army turned to people like Francis Lewis, successful merchants who has taken up the patriot cause despite the risks to both their life and fortunes. This approach saw moderate success and led to several crucial clandestine shipments reaching America in 1777, supplies that enabled the army to engage in some of the most important early battles. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
Help Captain Francis Lewis plan routes to move supplies from the Caribbean. These supplies that are critical to the Revolution. | |||
Planning your route | |||
To set your route, tap the Traverse board on the left of the table to input a direction.<br><br>Your ship will go in that direction until it hits a wall or obstacle.\nYou have a maximum of six inputs per voyage, so plan carefully. | |||
Wind currents and ships | |||
Wind currents push your ship without using up an input, so take advantage of them to travel further.<br><br>Be careful to avoid British ships along your journey. | |||
Hint | |||
If you need a hint tap the icon to see a possible route. | |||
Setting sail | |||
Once you're happy with your route, tap the tick button to start the voyage, you can press the reset icon to remove your inputs. | |||
;What happens | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Start] ''Let me lend my expertise to help plot a route for the French supplies that the Revolution needs. Use the circular Traverse board on the left of the table to set a course.'' | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Map 1 start] ''First we will need to work out a path for the goods from the Caribbean; this part should be simple enough. The French colonies there can provide us with immense amounts of gunpowder and other supplies. The main things to be aware of will be to work out the best route through the rocks.'' | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Map 1 end] ''Well done; that will be the perfect route for the ship. There are four more stages to plot. The French support for the war is what allows us to bring these supplies from the Caribbean.'' | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Map 2 start] ''The next step of the journey will require you to plot a route through the Windward Passage. You will need to be careful of both the rocks and the weather.'' | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Map 2 end] ''That will work well by the look of it. You will need to plot three more steps. In the next step of the journey, we will need to move the goods up the Gulf Stream and up the coast.'' | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Map 3 start] ''I know the risks of supporting the Revolution, but I cannot stand by when the Stamp Act is so unjust. You will need to be mindful of not just the rocks but British ships that will seize the cargo.'' | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Map 3 end] ''Perfect, that is exactly what is needed. Almost there, two more to go. I've seen firsthand how a war is often decided by logistics, and this one is no different.'' | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Map 4 start] ''Now let's plot a course that follows the coast up toward New York. You'll need to be aware of the risk of both the weather and of British ships in this leg of the journey.'' | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Map 4 end] ''That's an excellent solution. Only one more step left now. With the last step of the journey, you'll need to move the supplies into a safe harbor in America.'' | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Map 5 start] ''American forces are desperate for these supplies, their future depends on our success. You will need to contend with more British ships the closer you get to the destination. Good luck.'' | |||
*'''Francis Lewis:''' [Map 5 end] ''Excellent work. That route will take the supplies used where they are needed.'' | |||
;Outcome | |||
*Supplies delivered safely! | |||
Following your course, the ship delivered supplies to our Revolutionary forces in America. <br><br>With General Washington's supplies running dangerously low due to British blockades, this delivery could prove vital to the ongoing fight. Well done. | |||
;Log | |||
I worked with Welshman and Patriot Francis Lewis to plot a course for supplies from the French Caribbean to America. These supplies were critical for the ongoing war effort. | |||
|-|Pole= | |||
;Liberty Raised | |||
In 1771, patriots gathered here, overlooking City Hall, to erect Liberty Poles in defiance of British rule. Tensions with the occupying forces were high. Alongside Sons of Liberty member Isaac Sears, design and raise a pole in protest at British occupation.<br><br>Enter the revolutionary era New York City Hall to begin raising a liberty pole. | |||
;Historical details | |||
After Parliament repealed the Stamp Act, New Yorkers marked the moment by raising what became known as a liberty pole on the Common, near where British soldiers drilled. \nIn the 1760s, new British taxes and trade regulations had sparked fierce protests, especially among maritime workers and laborers who felt the economic strain most directly. The streets were a battleground.<br><br>The tall white pine mast, timber normally reserved for Royal Navy ships, rose above the barracks with a flag proclaiming liberty. It was meant to provoke. British troops and Loyalists repeatedly cut the pole down, and each time supporters of the Patriot cause raised another. <br><br> The conflict escalated into street fighting known as the Battle of Golden Hill, often described as the first bloodshed of the Revolution in New York. During the later British occupation, liberty poles continued to appear as symbols of resistance. Some were reinforced with metal bands or greased to prevent soldiers from climbing them. These towering masts were more than protest signs. They were bold declarations that even under imperial authority, many New Yorkers refused to surrender the idea of self government. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
The Sons of Liberty, alongside the famous revolutionary Hercules Mulligan designed and erected a Liberty Pole at this spot. <br><br>Join in and declare your defiance against British rule. | |||
Designing | |||
Tap the areas on the easel to customize your Liberty Pole. <br><br>You can choose the topper, defenses, and flag. | |||
Finalizing | |||
When you have finished designing, tap on the check mark on the paper at the bottom of the easel to finalize your Liberty Pole. | |||
;What happens | |||
*'''Hercules Mulligan:''' [start] ''Let's show those British clods that we'll not be cowed. Raise our Liberty Pole high and proud.'' | |||
*'''Hercules Mulligan:''' [first pole] ''The chiselers in the barracks will be furious at the use of the mast for a pole.'' | |||
*'''Hercules Mulligan:''' [first top] ''Be it a Liberty plaque or a red Cap of Liberty, our message to them couldn't be more clear.'' | |||
*'''Hercules Mulligan:''' [end] ''With every flag flown and every voice calling out in dissent, the support for the cause grows, my friend.'' | |||
;Outcome | |||
*Liberty Pole Raised! | |||
You successfully raised a Liberty Pole in front of the British barracks, sending a clear message to the occupying forces. It may be cut down, but a new one will be raised in its place. | |||
;Log | |||
Alongside Sons of Liberty member Isaac Sears, I designed and raised my own Liberty Pole in protest against British occupation. | |||
|-|NMM= | |||
;Nine Men's Morris | |||
1779 New York, occupied by the British, was torn apart by war, its streets shared uneasily by loyalists, patriots, and those caught somewhere in between. Take a moment's respite from the simmering tensions to sit here at City Hall Park, and play Nine Men's Morris with people with differing opinions on the war.<br><br>Enter the streets and taverns of revolutionary era New York to find a game. | |||
;Historical details | |||
Nine Men's Morris was a popular strategy game during the American Revolution and was played by soldiers and civilians alike. Boards were scratched into stone tavern tables, barrack walls, and public spaces across New York. Taverns and coffee houses were central gathering places where people shared news, argued politics, and passed the time. The rules of the game were simple: place your pieces carefully, block your opponent, and trap them until they could no longer move. But the strategy required patience and calculation. <br><br>In the 1770s, New Yorkers were engaged in a far more dangerous contest. Debates over Parliament's taxes and British authority filled these same public spaces. When talk turned to independence, the city divided. Some residents still considered themselves British and supported the Crown. Others were uncertain, worried about challenging the world's most powerful empire. Many favored resistance but disagreed about whether armed conflict was the answer. Class, occupation, faith, and neighborhood shaped opinion, and choosing a side carried real risk. Like Nine Men's Morris, the struggle for New York required careful moves. One wrong decision could leave you exposed in a city where politics, loyalty, and survival were deeply intertwined. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
As a keen Nine Men's Morris player, you must play against an opponent of your choosing. <br><br>Playing against different people will let you learn about life in New York during the occupation. | |||
Placement | |||
You and your opponent will take turns placing a man anywhere on the board. You both have a total of nine men each. | |||
Mills | |||
If a player creates a 'mill', by placing three of their men in a straight, non-diagonal row, they can remove one of their opponent's men that are not already in a mill. Mills can be made in any phase so watch where your opponent is placing their men and be sure to block any mills; otherwise, your men will be removed. | |||
Movement | |||
Once all pieces have been placed, players can move them one at a time by tapping on the piece they wish to move and shifting it into an adjacent empty space. | |||
Flying | |||
Once a player is down to three men, they can fly by moving their man to any empty space on the board. | |||
Victory / defeat | |||
Once a player is down to two men or unable to move, the other player wins. | |||
;What happens | |||
Easy (Loyalist): | |||
*'''Charles Inglis:''' [start] ''Good day to you. Nice to have a game with a new face.'' | |||
*'''Charles Inglis:''' [placed] ''You see my problem with the Revolution is not its aim so much as the method. Armed conflict harms everyone.'' | |||
*'''Charles Inglis:''' [1st taken] ''It is true; living in the city is not easy. The navy does its best, but the price of food and fuel is beyond the pale.'' | |||
*'''Charles Inglis:''' [2nd taken/his] ''That is some sagacity you are showing.'' | |||
*'''Charles Inglis:''' [2nd taken/yours] ''It looks like I am to make a cat's paw of you.'' | |||
*'''Charles Inglis:''' [3rd taken] ''It can scarce be argued that letting a country slide into mob rule is anything other than terrible. Am I right?'' | |||
*'''Charles Inglis:''' [4th taken] ''It is because of moments like this that my fondest hope is that we will put this behind us and act as one people again.'' | |||
*'''Charles Inglis:''' [end] ''Well played.'' | |||
Medium (neutral): | |||
*'''Hector de Crevecoeur:''' [start] ''How do you do? Shall we play a game and test our wits?'' | |||
*'''Hector de Crevecoeur:''' [placed] ''Freedom is something welcome if given, but I doubt it can be taken.'' | |||
*'''Hector de Crevecoeur:''' [1st taken] ''People forget that we have a great country; why risk that?'' | |||
*'''Hector de Crevecoeur:''' [2nd taken/his] ''Ah, you rascal. Well played indeed.'' | |||
*'''Hector de Crevecoeur:''' [2nd taken/yours] ''It looks like I've caught a weasel asleep!'' | |||
*'''Hector de Crevecoeur:''' [3rd taken] ''We need to have suitable caution when facing the most powerful military in the world.'' | |||
*'''Hector de Crevecoeur:''' [4th taken] ''I fear mostly for the common man. What chance does he have in all this?'' | |||
*'''Hector de Crevecoeur:''' [end] ''Well played.'' | |||
Hard (Rebel): | |||
*'''Abraham Woodhull:''' [start] ''Fancy a game do you, chum?'' | |||
*'''Abraham Woodhull:''' [placed] ''Washington and his forces are a-coming to take the city. Mark me they will march down Broadstreet soon.'' | |||
*'''Abraham Woodhull:''' [1st taken] ''Aye, it started with the tea sure enough but it's about Liberty, a man's right to make his own way without foreign interference.'' | |||
*'''Abraham Woodhull:''' [2nd taken/his] ''Don't try to put the squeeze on me, buddy. I don't squeeze easily.'' | |||
*'''Abraham Woodhull:''' [2nd taken/yours] ''Now don't you be calling me a chiseler, this is naught but skill.'' | |||
*'''Abraham Woodhull:''' [3rd taken] ''Of course I fear arrest. I ain't no ninny. They round up fellows for the slightest suspicion these days and they have a terrible time of it.'' | |||
*'''Abraham Woodhull:''' [4th taken] ''Once the war is one ‘twill be a fairer place for all. Just you wait.'' | |||
*'''Abraham Woodhull:''' [end] ''Well played.'' | |||
;Outcome | |||
*You lost! | |||
Despite your best efforts, you've lost this game. Why not try again or face off against one of the other people from the city? | |||
*It's a tie! | |||
You and your opponent were evenly matched. Why not try again or face off against one of the other people from the city? | |||
*You won! | |||
Quick wit and smart strategy were needed to win the game. Why not try against one of the other people from the city? | |||
;Log | |||
Taking a moment's respite from the simmering tensions in the city I sat and played Nine Men's Morris with several people with differing opinions on the war. | |||
|-|Press= | |||
;Printing Pressure | |||
You are standing on Hanover Square where printers used to work in the many buildings around this area. In 1775 tensions between Loyalists and Patriots were running high. Printers were publishing the latest news arriving into the city on the packet ships. Take to the printing press, assemble different articles, and print your newspaper.<br><br>Enter the streets of revolutionary era New York and head towards the Hanover Square print shop. | |||
;Historical details | |||
By the mid eighteenth century, New York had become the communications capital of colonial America. With a regular packet ship connection to England, news from Europe arrived here first and spread outward to other colonies. At Hanover Square near the East River waterfront, merchants, sailors, and printers gathered to exchange information that shaped public opinion. <br><br>During the imperial crisis after 1763, printers played a powerful role in the growing debate over Britain's authority. One of the most controversial was James Rivington. In 1773 he launched the New York Gazette, and its outspoken Loyalist tone won support from British officials while angering revolutionaries. In 1775 a Patriot mob destroyed his printshop and forced him to flee to London. <br><br>When British forces captured New York in 1777, Rivington returned as the King's official printer, publishing newspapers that defended royal rule. Yet the story did not end there. Evidence later suggested that he secretly supplied information to George Washington's spy network. In a city divided by war, the press became its own battlefield, and loyalty was often far more complicated than it first appeared. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
Alongside James Parker, a printer in occupied New York, you must use the printing press to create a newspaper. <br><br>The articles are politically varied and what you choose will determine your future. | |||
Selecting Content | |||
Tap the glowing areas of the printing press to select articles, cartoons, and the look of your newspaper. | |||
Loyalist or Patriot | |||
Each choice affects how you're perceived in New York, and beyond, based on what you choose to print. | |||
Printing the Paper | |||
Once all the content has been chosen, tap on the highlighted lever to start the printing process. | |||
;What happens | |||
*'''James Parker:''' [Start] ''Remember, you will need to add content to the five sections of the printing area.'' | |||
*'''James Parker:''' [FirstArticle] ''There are stories from every corner of the world. What would appeal to the readers?'' | |||
*'''James Parker:''' [FirstCartoon] ''The city is divided between Loyalist and Patriot supporters; I don't think I'll be able to appeal to everybody.'' | |||
*'''James Parker:''' [AllComponents] ''To print the paper follow my instructions and use the parts of the press as I show you.'' | |||
*'''James Parker:''' [Draft] ''Time to get this printed.'' | |||
Headers: | |||
*New York Gazette | |||
**The New-York Gazette and Weekly Mercury ran from February 1, 1768 to November 10, 1783, published by Hugh Gaine. Initially sympathetic to the Patriot movement, Gaine fled to Newark when the British captured New York, but returned in November 1776 and switched to publishing it as a Loyalist paper. | |||
*New York Packet | |||
**Founded in January 1776 by printer Samuel Loudon, the New York Packet ran until 1792. Loudon was a strong advocate for American independence and freedom of the press. | |||
*Royal Gazette | |||
**The Royal Gazette was published by Loyalist printer James Rivington in British-held New York City from 1777 to 1783. It was one of the most prominent Loyalist newspapers of the Revolutionary War period, serving as a mouthpiece for the British Crown during the occupation of New York. | |||
Articles: | |||
*This article is a statement by John Hancock that the Revolutionary General George Washington was correct to refuse a letter sent to him by the British without his military title. | |||
**IN CONGRESS, \nJuly 17, 1776.<br><br>Resolved, That General WASHINGTON, in refusing to receive a letter said to be sent from Lord Howe, addressed to GEORGE WASHINGTON, ESQUIRE, acted with a dignity becoming his station; and therefore this Congress do highly approve the same, and do direct that no letter or message, be received on any occasion whatever, from the enemy, by the commander in Chief, or other the Commanders of the American army, but such as shall be directed to them in the characters they respectively sustain.<br><br>By order of the Congress,\nJOHN HANCOCK, President.\n | |||
*This article describes how the British ship the HMS Phoenix has sailed up the North River and been shot at by the Revolutionary forces. | |||
**NEW-YORK, July 29.<br><br>By the last Account we have had of the two Men of War that lately went up the North River, they then lay in Haverstraw-Bay, their Tenders cruising about; last Saturday Sen'night one of them went near the Fort, upon which our People fired a 32 Pounder at her, which went through her Quarter, when she tacked about, and stood down the River. | |||
*This article describes a reward that is being offered for information about deserters from a patriot company. | |||
**FIVE DOLLARS Reward.<br><br>For taking up each of the following deserters from Capt. HENRY O'HARA's company, now stationed at Fort George, above Albany, viz.<br><br>- John Clarke, late a regular soldier, 6 feet high, black curled hair, stutters a little, by trade a nail maker.\n- John Lynch, born in Ireland, 40 years of age, 5 feet 5 inches high, black hair.\n- Joshua Doly, a likely young man, 5 feet 10 inches high, long sandy hair, shews his upper teeth, born in Essex, Morris county.\n- Adrian Post, 5 feet 9 inches high, thin faced, likewise born in Essex, Morris county.\n- James Dailey, 5 feet 5 inches high, well set, pock marked, has a scar in his face from a late hurt, and blackish hair.\n- Robert Field, 5 feet 4 inches high, well set, pock marked, not talkative, has been a sailor, and is very civil.\n- John Emery, 5 feet 9 inches high, full faced, thick lipp'd, coloured curled hair.<br><br>The above deserters have all received their full pay for subsistence and wages, took with them their blankets and frocks, and are supposed to be gone toward the new county in New Jersey.<br><br>A constant search will be made after these robbers of the public, and any persons harbouring or concealing them, will be dealt with as enemies to their country. FIVE DOLLARS reward, and all reasonable charges, for taking up and returning each of them, will be paid by the said Captain (now in Albany) not (as advertised in a former paper) by Patrick M'Davit, who has no cash deposited in his hands for that purpose.\n | |||
*This article is a declaration by Isaac Sears about how he has not been involved in the supply of the British Army at Boston. | |||
**Persinally appeared before me Benjamin Blagge, one of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the City and County of New-York, Isaac Sears, and Paschal N. Smith, of the said City, Merchants, who being severally sworn, depose and say, that since the shutting up of the Port of Boston, neither of them have, directly or indirectly, nor any other Person for or under them, supplied, or cause to be supplied the Army at Boston, with any Manner or Kind of Provisions whatsoever; and that neither of them have received, nor in future expect to receive any Kind of Emolument or Advantage in any Respect, from the Flour, Pease, and other Provisions shipped for the Use of the Army at Boston, since the shutting up the said Port of Boston.<br><br>ISAAC SEARS,\nPASCHAL N. SMITH.\nSworn this 17th of April, 1775, before me\nB. BLAGGE.\n | |||
*This article is a letter from the Editor expressing support for the Revolutionary cause. | |||
**To the Public.<br><br>THE Printer embraces this early opportunity of returning his cordial thanks to his Customers, for the favour and honour they have conferred upon him, by encouraging the publication of this Paper, which makes its first appearance under a disadvantage, as little foreign news is to be expected at this season of the year. He does not mean to amuse his Readers with pompous promises; therefore, he only assures them, that he will endeavour to merit their approbation, by exerting himself to render the NEW-YORK PACKET of public utility. While the difficulty of the times require much prudence in conducting a Work of this nature, he hopes his Readers will be so candid as to make every reasonable allowance.<br><br>His will be extremely happy to have it in his power, to convey, thro' the channel of this Paper, together with useful intelligence, foreign and domestic, any considerations that may illustrate and animate the glorious cause of Constitutional Liberty, and at the same time pour medicine into the bleeding wounds of the extended empire. For this purpose, he most earnestly invites the Friends of America and the British Constitution, to favour him with their kind assistance. Much has been said on the important controversy that now engages the attention of all Europe; but the subject is not yet exhausted; there is sufficient scope for new discussions.<br><br>In the mean time, the Printer begs leave, very respectfully, to present the compliments of the season to his kind Customers; wishing, that the year 1776 may be the happy Era, in which Peace and Union, on a Constitutional Basis, shall be concluded between Great-Britain and her Colonies. To these wishes, he begs leave to have the additional pleasure of seeing the Public's Most obedient, humble servant,\nSAMUEL LOUDON.\n | |||
*This article shows an apology for breaking Continental Congress rules on unloading goods from a British controlled ship. | |||
**Whereas we the Subscribers have broke the Association of the late Continental Congress, by unloading a Part of the Cargo from on board the Ship Beulah; we do declare that we are sorry for the Offence we gave the Publick thereby, and that we will for the future strictly adhere to the said Association, and to the further Orders of the Continental Congress, the Provincial Congress of the Colony of New-York, and the General Committee of Association for the City and County of New-York, saving to Robert Murray (who is one of the People called QUAKERS) his religious Principles. | |||
*This article contains a list of politicians who are supportive of the Revolutionary cause. | |||
**TO ALL TRUE WHIGS,\nAnd particularly to such as are Independent Electors of the City and County of New York.<br><br>Gentlemen, the Conduct of several of the Magistrates of this City, having, for a considerable Time been so notoriously inimical and unfriendly to the Liberties of this Country, and diametrically opposite to the Sentiments of a Number of their Constituents; who, therefore, without any private Pique, or party Resentment, but purely to promote and serve the general Cause, have agreed to choose the undermentioned Gentlemen as Guardians of their City Liberties, for the ensuing Year; they having shown a hearty Disposition to serve their oppressed and bleeding Country; and are therefore recommended to all true Friends of American Liberty, viz.<br><br>Aldermen.\nOut Ward. Nicholas Bayard,\nMontgomery Ward. Capt. John Pell,\nEast Ward. William Bedlow,\nNorth Ward. Isaac Stoutenburgh,\nWest Ward. Jacobus Stoutenburgh,\nSouth Ward. Benjamin Dervois,\nDock Ward. Garret Abeel,<br><br>Common Council.\nCapt. Anthony Rutgers,\nFrancis Van Dyck.\nJeremiah Brower.\nStephen Terbune.\nPeter T. Curtenius.\nJohn Williamson.\nConrad W. Ham.<br><br>The Friends to Liberty are earnestly requested to attend at the LIBERTY-POLE, To-morrow Morning, at 8 o'Clock, on Business of the utmost Importance.\nNew-York, Sept. 28, 1775.\n | |||
*This article declares a strong position on those who had taken an oath to support the revolution by the Patriot Council of Safety. | |||
**Whereas many People have taken the Benefit of the late Act of Grace, merely to avoid the Punishment of their Crimes; and instead of proving the Sincerity of their Repentance, take the first Opportunity to shew their Enmity to the Country.<br><br>Resolved therefore, That every Person, who has heretofore taken the Oath of Allegiance to this State, and the Benefit of the Act of Grace, published the Tenth Day of May last, who shall hereafter be convicted of having done any Act contrary to the Tenor of such Oath, shall be deemed guilty of Felony, without Benefit of Clergy.<br><br>By Order of Council,\nPIERRE VAN CORTLANDT, President. | |||
*This article details support and financial relief being offered to Loyalists. | |||
**Notice is hereby given<br><br>To those suffering Loyalists who have been recommended for Relief by the Board appointed to examine their Circumstances and Claims, that unless Application is made at the PAY OFFICE, No. 21, Maiden-Lane, for their respective Allowances, on or before the 20th Instant, the Accounts will be closed, and they thereby excluded.<br><br>New-York, March 10, 1783. | |||
*This article is an announcement that a store in New York is closing in accordance with instructions from the Patriot Committees of Safety. | |||
**To the Public.<br><br>Being informed that many of our Fellow-Citizens entertain Apprehensions that we may continue as usual to transact Trade and Business in this City, by which means they fear there will be continual Infractions of the Association: We do hereby declare to, and engage with the Public, That we will shut up our Store, under the Inspection of several respectable Citizens, whose Seals will be fixed thereon, so as to prevent any unfair Conduct; and that we will not, after the Committee's Publication of our case, transact, or carry on any Trade whatsoever, which will be, either in ourselves, or in others, a Breach of the Association.\nNew-York, March 18, 1775.<br><br>Robert Murray.\nJohn Murray.\n | |||
*This article describes how a tea ship remained outside the city in support of the Revolutionary cause. | |||
**To the Public.<br><br>The long expected TEA SHIP arrived last night at Sandy-Hook, but the pilot would not bring up the Captain till the sense of the city was known. The committee were immediately informed of her arrival, and that the Captain solicits for liberty to come up to provide necessaries for his return. The ship to remain at Sandy-Hook. The committee conceiving it to be the sense of the city that he should have such liberty, signified it to the Gentleman who is to supply him with provisions, and other necessaries. Advice of this was immediately dispatched to the Captain; and whenever he comes up, care will be taken that he does not enter at the custom-house, and that no time be lost in dispatching him.<br><br>New-York, April 19, 1774. | |||
*This article is a poem on the importance of a responsible economic policy and the risks that are posed by the revolution. | |||
**Let none, Economy, disdain to hear\nThy doctrines salutary, sage, and clear:\nOf them, observant thro' our lives, we ne'er\nShall by grim Want be driv'n to despair?\nOf them observant, we, in ev'ry state,\nClass'd with the low, the little, or the great,\nShall keep in view the standard of expence,\nWhich proves the strongest, surest test of sense:\nIf we through weakness, vanity or pride,\nTake not that standard as a faithful guide,\nWe may, with all the wealth beneath the sun,\nBy false seducers lur'd, to ruin run:\nEven those who, pow'rful, keep the Treasury keys,\nThe nation's wealth, dividing, as they please,\nWithout thy vital, influential aid,\nMay blast the best designs of lib'ral trade,\nAnd with the happiest measures the land to bless,\nFind numerous ways to spread around distress. | |||
*This article, written by the newspaper printed James Rivington, advocates for the freedom of the press. | |||
**To the Public.\nAs many Publications have appeared from my Press which have given great Offence to the Colonies, and particularly to many of my Fellow Citizens; I am therefore led, by a most sincere Regard for their favourable Opinion, to declare to the Public, that Nothing which I have ever done, has proceeded from any Sentiments in the least unfriendly to the Liberties of this Continent, but altogether from the Ideas I entertained of the Liberty of the Press, and of my duty as a Printer. <br><br>I am led to make this free and public Declaration to my Fellow Citizens, which I hope they will consider as a sufficient Pledge of my Resolution, for the future, to conduct my Press upon such Principles as shall not give Offence to the Inhabitants of the Colonies in general, and of this City in particular, to which I am connected by the tenderest of all human Ties, and in the Welfare of which I shall consider my own as inseparably involved.<br><br>James Rivington.\nNEW-YORK, April 27, 1775.\n | |||
Cartoons: | |||
*The American rattlesnake presenting Monsieur his ally a dish of frogs, London 1782 | |||
**This cartoon shows an American rattlesnake offering a basket of frogs to a French socialite. It mocks their reliance on each other and encourages Britain to oppose them both. | |||
*The British Lion Engaging Four Powers, London 1782 | |||
**This cartoon shows Britain (depicted as a lion) fighting a coalition of Americans (a snake), Dutch (a pug dog), Spanish (a spaniel), and French (a cockerel). The triumphant tone mocks the nations who sought to oppose Britain. | |||
*The horse America, throwing his master, London, 1779 | |||
**This cartoon shows America as a wild horse violently throwing off its British rider. It symbolizes the colonies rebelling against and rejecting British control during the Revolutionary War. | |||
*Liberty Triumphant or the Downfall of Oppression, Boston 1774 | |||
**This cartoon shows the British Tea Tax as a plot by the Devil to destroy colonial liberty, while American colonists nobly defend their rights. It highlights the mounting tensions that lead to the Revolutionary War. | |||
*Miss Carolina Sulivan - one of the obstinate daughters of America, London 1776 | |||
**This cartoon shows Sullivan's Island, portrayed as a head-and-shoulders portrait of a woman who looks like a leading British politician William Pitt. It mocks the British after the successful defense of the island by the Revolutionary forces. | |||
*The political cartoon for the year 1775, London | |||
**This cartoon shows King George III, depicted as overwhelmed and failing to control the rebellious American colonies. It highlights British anxiety and criticism of royal leadership at the outbreak of war. | |||
*A Society of Patriotic Ladies at Edenton, North Carolina, London 1775 | |||
**This cartoon shows a group of colonial women singing a promise not to buy or use East India Company tea or English-made cloth. Its depiction mocks the American colonists as ugly, foolish, and misguided | |||
*The Tea-Tax-Tempest, or Old Time with his Magick Lanthern | |||
**This cartoon satirizes the causes and unfolding chaos of the American Revolution. It depicts Father Time, who uses an 18th-century projection lantern to cast a vision of the American Revolution. At the center of the projection is a teapot bursting into flames while a rooster (representing France) fans the flames, symbolizing French interference and their alliance with the American colonies. Alongside the screen Europe, Asia, Africa, and America are depicted as women watching this unfold. | |||
*The Repeal: Or the Funeral Procession of Miss America-Stamp, 1766 | |||
**This cartoon shows politicians marching a child's coffin that represents the Stamp Act to a vault. It celebrates the restoration of trade and mocks the act's supporters. | |||
*The Statue, London, 1766 | |||
**This cartoon shows British politicians kneeling before and adoring a statue of William Pitt the Elder. It mocks the political leaders responsible for the 1765 Stamp Act and celebrates the repeal of the deeply controversial American tax. | |||
*The Tory's Day of Judgement, New York 1795 | |||
**This cartoon shows former Loyalists (“Tories”) facing public humiliation and punishment in a chaotic, almost apocalyptic scene. It reflects a lingering post-Revolution resentment and the idea that Loyalists must answer for their allegiance to Britain by the Americans. | |||
;Outcome | |||
*Printing pressure | |||
[LOYALIST] Your pro-British articles will find favor with some in New York, but should the British be defeated, expect trouble. | |||
[REVOLUTIONARY] You've backed the Revolutionary cause with your published articles, winning favor with some in New York - as long as you can avoid being shut down or forced out of the city. | |||
;Log | |||
With tensions between Loyalists and Patriots running high in New York I joined the printers in Hanover Square and assembled different articles to print my own newspaper. | |||
|-|Statue= | |||
;Tearing down the King | |||
The statue is gone now, but in 1776, revolutionary supporters gathered here on the Bowling Green, at the foot of the British-controlled fort, around a statue of King George. General Washington did one of the first readings of the Declaration of Independence here. Join the riot alongside Issac Sears and throw ropes onto the statue of King George to topple it.<br><br>Enter the streets of revolutionary era New York and head towards Bowling green. | |||
;Historical details | |||
On July 9, 1776, crowds gathered in what is now City Hall Park to hear the Declaration of Independence read aloud to Washington's troops and the public. With those words, the colonies renounced their allegiance to King George III and declared themselves free states. The news echoed across a city already on edge, as British warships filled the harbor and redcoats stood in nearby barracks.<br><br>That evening, energized by the declaration, a group of sailors and laborers marched down Broadway to Bowling Green, just outside Fort George, the center of British power in New York. Inside the iron fence stood a towering gilded statue of King George III, erected only a few years earlier as a symbol of imperial authority. By torchlight, the crowd pulled the 4,000 pound lead statue from its pedestal and broke it apart while onlookers cheered. <br><br>The fragments were later sent to Connecticut, where much of the metal was melted down and recast into bullets for the Continental Army. In a single night, a royal monument became ammunition, and the Revolution in New York moved from bold words to visible defiance in the streets. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
Rioters toppled the statue of King George at the Bowling Green.<br><br>Throw ropes onto the statue to pull it down. | |||
Ropes | |||
Tap and hold on the pile of ropes, then swipe toward the statue to throw and attach them. | |||
Topple | |||
Once three ropes are attached to the statue, rapidly tap the screen when prompted to topple it. | |||
;What happens | |||
*'''Isaac Sears:''' [Start] ''Right, chaps, you heard him; we have broken free of the tyranny of the King.'' | |||
*'''Isaac Sears:''' [FirstRope] ''Right, chaps, we'll need two more ropes to topple him.'' | |||
*'''Isaac Sears:''' [AllRopes] ''That should do it. Now pull with all your might, patriots!'' | |||
*'''Isaac Sears:''' [PullStart] ''He's starting to topple. Keep at it and show them our commitment to independence.'' | |||
*'''Isaac Sears:''' [PullSecond] ''We almost have it down. Pull!'' | |||
*'''Isaac Sears:''' [Topple] ''This is where it starts; we'll cast this into bullets and send them to the King one shot at a time.'' | |||
;Outcome | |||
*Statue Toppled | |||
The statue of King George has been toppled! The conviction of New York to oppose the occupation by the British forces and resist their tyranny has been made clear to all. | |||
;Log | |||
Joining the riot in front of the British fort, I worked with Patriot Isaac Sears and toppled the statue of King George. | |||
|-|Turtle= | |||
;The Turtle | |||
In 1776, with American forces in control of New York, Sergeant Lee launched David Bushnell's newly invented Turtle submersible along this bank overlooking the East River. Pilot it undetected beneath the Royal Navy ships, in an attempt to sink the British flagship.<br><br>Enter the docks of revolutionary era New York and head to the Turtle launch location. | |||
;Historical details | |||
In 1775, inventor David Bushnell created a remarkable new weapon that looked more like a wooden barrel than a machine of war. Called the Turtle, it is considered the world's first military submarine. Powered by hand and foot, the one person vessel included ballast pumps to control depth, a compass, a depth gauge, and an early screw propeller. Bushnell designed it to carry an explosive charge that could be attached to the hull of a British warship, hoping to disrupt the blockade tightening around New York. <br><br>When Bushnell fell ill, the mission fell to a young volunteer, Ezra Lee. In September 1776, after the British captured the city, Washington approved an attack on General William Howe's flagship, the 64 gun HMS Eagle. Under cover of darkness, Lee pedaled from the Battery toward the massive warship and attempted to drill into its hull to secure the explosive. A metal plate prevented him from attaching the charge, and as he surfaced, British guards began to stir. Lee released the timed device and escaped. The explosion caused little damage, but the attempt was groundbreaking. <br><br>Though the Turtle saw limited use before being lost later that year, it marked the beginning of underwater warfare and showcased American ingenuity in desperate times. | |||
;Instructions | |||
Objective | |||
Take on the role of Sergeant Lee and navigate the Turtle submersible through the Royal Navy blockade to the British flagship, the HMS Eagle. | |||
Entering | |||
To start, approach the Turtle and tap on it to board. | |||
Movement | |||
Tap the highlighted levers to access the controls. You can control the direction and propulsion with the slider. | |||
Navigation | |||
Use the map to track your position and the British ships. | |||
Detection and hazards | |||
Be careful to avoid hazards such as rocks and anchors from the British ships. You can check for ships and rocks on your map. | |||
The Bomb | |||
When you reach the British flagship, tap on the highlighted handle to activate the drill and attempt to attach the bomb. | |||
;What happens | |||
*'''Designer:''' [start] ''Greetings, Sergeant. Board the submersible when you are ready to start your mission. The weather is good, but you will need to rely on your compass and map. Good luck!'' | |||
*'''Pilot:''' [start] ''I'm glad I've got a little light from the fungi. Without that, it would be awfully dark down here.'' | |||
*'''Pilot:''' [quarter] ''Once I've sunk the British flagship, we'll be striking a blow at the British and raising morale. I've just got to avoid detection.'' | |||
*'''Pilot:''' [half] ''I don't think I'll ever get used to these controls. Bushnell may be a genius, but this is not exactly simple.'' | |||
*'''Pilot:''' [three quarters] ''Almost there now, not much further to go.'' | |||
*'''Pilot:''' [Flagship] ''There is their flagship! Now to attach the bomb with the right hand lever.'' | |||
*'''Pilot:''' [bomb] ''Darn it all. I've succeeded in getting here but the bomb won't affix!'' | |||
;Outcome | |||
*Mission Failed! | |||
! | **Collided with hazard | ||
The Turtle struck a hazard underwater, forcing you to abandon the mission.<br><br>Despite the ingenuity of the newly created submersible, the controls were undeniably difficult to use. | |||
**Alerted the British | |||
The turtle got too close to the British ships, alerting them of your presence.<br><br>Despite the ingenuity of the newly created submersible, the controls were undeniably difficult to use. | |||
**Left mission area | |||
You abandoned the mission. | |||
**Failed to plant bomb | |||
Despite your best efforts, you failed to plant a bomb. | |||
*Mission Succeeded! | |||
**Target reached | |||
! | You successfully navigated the hazards in the East River and reached the Flagship undetected.<br><br>However, the bomb failed to affix, you had no choice but to deploy it and abandon the mission. | ||
;Log | |||
I piloted David Bushnell's newly invented Turtle submersible undetected beneath the Royal Navy ships in the blockade. I came close to sinking the British flagship but the bomb didn't affix and I had to abandon my mission. | |||
</tabber> | |||
--> | |||
Latest revision as of 04:14, 9 October 2026
Refs[edit | edit source]
Links to check[edit | edit source]
Existing[edit | edit source]
- Alexander Hamilton [REF NYC PR]
- American Revolution [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR]
- Battle of Bunker Hill [REF Boston PR]
- Battle of Yorktown [REF NYC PR]
- Benjamin Franklin [REF Boston PR]
- Boston [REF Boston PR]
- British Army [REF NYC PR]
- Charles Cornwallis [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR]
- Crispus Attucks [REF Boston PR]
- Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR]
- King's College [REF NYC PR]
- Massachusetts [REF Boston PR]
- Philadelphia [REF NYC PR]
- Queens [REF NYC PR]
- Siege of Yorktown [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR]
- Thomas Jefferson [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR]
- William Dawes [REF Boston PR]
- Boston Common [REF Boston An American Navy][REF Boston Minutemen]
- Boston Massacre [REF Boston Justice on Trial][REF Boston PR]
- Boston Tea Party [REF Boston A Tea Party][REF Boston PR]
- Bowling Green [REF NYC Tearing down the King]
- Charles Grey, 1st Earl Grey [REF NYC Passing Judgment]
- Connecticut [REF NYC Tearing down the King]
- Continental Army [REF Boston PR][REF NYC Escaping Brooklyn][REF NYC PR]
- Continental Congress [REF Boston PR][REF NYC PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- Continental Navy [REF Boston An American Navy][REF Boston PR]
- Culper Ring [REF NYC Colonial House][REF NYC PR]
- Declaration of Independence [REF NYC Tearing down the King]
- East India Company [REF Boston A Tea Party]
- Faneuil Hall [REF Boston The Flag]
- Federal Hall [REF NYC Liberty Raised]
- Fort George [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons][REF NYC Tearing down the King]
- George III of the United Kingdom [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- George Washington [REF Boston PR][REF NYC Escaping Brooklyn][REF NYC Fire Suspects][REF NYC PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons][REF NYC The Turtle]
- Great Fire of New York [REF NYC Fire Suspects]
- Green Dragon Tavern [REF Boston Green Dragon]
- Guy Carleton [REF NYC Fire Suspects]
- John Hancock [REF Boston PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- Liberty Tree [REF Boston Liberty Tree (memory)]
- Old South Meeting House [REF Boston A Tea Party][REF Boston Liberty Tree (memory)]
- Old State House [REF Boston Justice on Trial]
- Paul Revere [REF Boston A Light in the Dark][REF Boston PR]
- Royal Navy [REF NYC The Turtle]
- Rufus Putnam [REF NYC Defending the Hudson]
- Samuel Adams [REF Boston PR][REF Boston The Flag]
- South Carolina [REF NYC Passing Judgment]
- Thomas Preston [REF Boston Justice on Trial]
- West Point [REF NYC Colonial House]
- William Howe [REF NYC Fire Suspects][REF NYC PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons][REF NYC The Turtle]
- William Pitt the Elder [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
Red links (?)[edit | edit source]
- 14th Continental Regiment (Marblehead regiment) [REF NYC PR]
- 1783 Treaty of Paris [REF Boston PR]
- Caleb Brewster [REF NYC PR]
- Cato (spy) [REF NYC PR]
- Long Island [REF NYC PR]
- Nathan Hale [REF NYC PR]
- Abraham Woodhull [REF Database:_Culper_Ring][REF NYC Nine Men's Morris]
- Agent 355 [REF Database:_Culper_Ring][REF Database:_Spy_network_and_secret_codes][REF NYC Colonial House]
- Battle of Golden Hill (Mo) [REF NYC Liberty Raised]
- Battle of Long Island [REF Contracts_(Colonial_Brotherhood)][REF Database:_...Two_Steps_Back][REF Database:_Charles_Lee][REF Database:_Israel_Putnam][REF NYC Defending the Hudson][REF NYC Escaping Brooklyn][REF NYC PR]
- Benjamin Blagge [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- Boston King [REF NYC Passing Judgment]
- Caesar Glover [REF NYC Escaping Brooklyn][REF NYC PR]
- Charles Inglis [REF NYC Nine Men's Morris]
- David Bushnell [REF NYC The Turtle]
- Dunmore's Proclamation/Royal Ethiopian Regiment (Mo) [REF A_Fool's_Errand][REF Connor's_Way][REF Database:_George_Davidson][REF NYC Passing Judgment]
- Evacuation Day [REF Database:_HMS_Jersey][REF Database:_Evacuation_Day][REF Evacuation_Day][REF NYC Passing Judgment]
- Ezra Lee [REF NYC The Turtle]
- Francis Lewis [REF NYC PR][REF NYC Supplying the Revolution (Echoes of the Revolution)]
- Fraunces Tavern [REF Database:_Washington's_Resignation][REF NYC Passing Judgment]
- Hanover Square [REF NYC Printing Pressure]
- Hector de Crevecoeur [REF NYC Nine Men's Morris]
- Hercules Mulligan [REF NYC Colonial House][REF NYC Liberty Raised][REF NYC PR]
- HMS Eagle (1774) [REF NYC The Turtle]
- HMS Phoenix (1759)/HMS Rose (1757) [REF NYC Defending the Hudson][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- Hudson River [REF NYC Colonial House][REF NYC Defending the Hudson]
- Hugh Gaine (mo) [REF NYC Printing Pressure]
- Hugh Montgomery [REF A_Trip_to_Boston][REF Boston Justice on Trial]
- Isaac Sears [REF NYC PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons][REF NYC Tearing down the King]
- James Lovell (Mo) [REF Boston Green Dragon]
- James Otis [REF Boston Liberty Tree (memory)]
- James Parker [REF NYC Printing Pressure]
- James Rivington (Mo) [REF NYC Colonial House][REF NYC Printing Pressure][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- Jane Whitehouse (Mo) [REF Boston Justice on Trial]
- John Adams [REF Boston Green Dragon][REF Boston Justice on Trial][REF Boston PR][REF Database:_Alcohol,_a_crucial_resource][REF Database:_The_Declaration_of_Independence][REF Man_of_Mettle]
- John Baltus Dash [REF NYC Fire Suspects]
- John Paul Jones [REF Boston An American Navy]
- John Spurr [REF Boston A Tea Party]
- Jon Jefferies (Mo) [REF Boston Justice on Trial]
- Joseph Warren [REF Boston A Light in the Dark][REF Boston PR][REF Echoes_of_History]
- Matthew Kilroy [REF Boston Justice on Trial]
- Nova Scotia (Mo) [REF A LOT (others)][REF NYC Passing Judgment]
- Paschal N. Smith [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- Patrick Carr (Mo) [REF Boston Justice on Trial]
- Robert Murray [REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- Royal Gazette [REF NYC Printing Pressure]
- Samuel Birch [REF NYC Passing Judgment]
- Samuel Loudon (mo) [REF NYC Printing Pressure][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- Stamp Act [REF NYC Liberty Raised][REF A_Trip_to_Boston][REF Database:_Benjamin_Franklin_(Assassin's_Creed_III)][REF Database:_City_Hall_(Rogue)][REF Database:_One_Step_Forward...][REF Database:_Stamp_Act][REF Echoes_of_History][REF Boston A Tea Party][REF Boston PR][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- Sullivan's Island [REF Contracts_(Colonial_Brotherhood)][REF NYC Printing Pressure:Articles & cartoons]
- Timothy Bigelow (soldier) [REF Boston Minutemen]
- Turtle (submersible) [REF NYC The Turtle]
- William Bowes [REF Boston Green Dragon]
- William Moultrie (mo) [REF Boston The Flag]
[edit | edit source]
Echoes of Revolution memories
| |
|---|---|
| Boston memories | |
| The Flag - An American Navy - Green Dragon - Minutemen - A Light in the Dark - A Tea Party - Liberty Tree (memory) - Justice on Trial | |
| New York City memories | |
| Passing Judgment - Defending the Hudson - Colonial House - Escaping Brooklyn - Fire Suspects - Supplying the Revolution (Echoes of Revolution) - Liberty Raised - Nine Men's Morris - Printing Pressure - Tearing down the King - The Turtle | |
Boston People of the Revolution[edit | edit source]
Born in Boston, Samuel Adams was a pivotal Founding Father, political philosopher, and civic leader who galvanized colonial resistance against British authority. He strongly opposed the Stamp Act and other parliamentary taxation measures, leading to his involvement in the formation and operation of the Sons of Liberty in Boston. During the 1760s and 1770s he coordinated anti-British activities both within Boston and across the colonies, including the Boston Tea Party.
As a delegate to the Continental Congress, Adams was a firm advocate for separating from Britain, signing the Declaration of Independence in 1776. He was also involved in drafting the Articles of Confederation and, after the war, served as governor of Massachusetts.
Crispus Attucks was one of the first casualties of the American Revolution. As an escaped slave working as a sailor and dock worker in Boston, he became a protest leader and the first victim of the Boston Massacre. During the confrontation with British soldiers on King Street, Attucks stood at the forefront of a crowd, demanding that the soldiers leave. When the soldiers opened fire, Attucks was shot twice in the chest, dying instantly.
Although his death was used as political propaganda to fuel anti-British sentiment during the period, his status as a martyr was cemented by 19th-century abolitionists who highlighted his sacrifice as a testament to Black patriotism.
Benjamin Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers. A seasoned diplomat in London, he initially opposed the Stamp Act and, upon returning to America, he helped draft the Declaration of Independence in 1776. One of his most significant contributions to the Revolution was serving as the primary American envoy to France from 1776 to 1778. Using his fame as a scientist and diplomatic expertise, he secured essential French financial and military support. This support is widely regarded as being instrumental in turning the tide of the war.
Franklin is the only Founding Father to sign all three major documents establishing the United States: the Declaration of Independence (1776), the Treaty of Paris ending the war (1783), and the U.S. Constitution (1787).
John Hancock was an American merchant, statesman, and prominent Patriot leader during the American Revolution. Inheriting a massive fortune from his uncle, Hancock became one of New England's wealthiest men and used this wealth and influence to oppose British taxation policies. His defiance made him popular in Boston, particularly after customs officials seized his ship, the Liberty, in 1768 on charges of smuggling.
Hancock served as the President of the Second Continental Congress from 1775 to 1777, and after the war, he served as the first and third Governor of Massachusetts. He is best known for being the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence in 1776, doing so with a large, bold signature to defy King George III.
Thomas Jefferson was a pivotal figure in the American Revolution, acting as a leading intellectual, a political activist, and the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. Throughout the conflict, while he did not fight on the battlefield, he sought to transform the American colonies into a modern republic, advocating for the separation of church and state, the abolition of feudal inheritance laws, and widespread educational reform. As a delegate to the Second Continental Congress in 1776, the 33-year-old Virginian was tasked with drafting the document that justified the colonies' break from Great Britain, articulating the foundational American ideals of "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness".
Marquis de Lafayette was a French aristocrat and military officer who played a crucial role in the American Revolution, acting as a vital link between the American colonies and France. Inspired by the American cause of liberty, the 19-year-old defied King Louis XVI and traveled to America in 1777, volunteering to serve without pay.
He quickly formed a close bond with George Washington and was commissioned as a major general in the Continental Army. Lafayette proved his bravery and skill in battle and was wounded in action. This led him to return to France and lobby for increased military aid, successfully securing French troops and supplies for the colonies. Returning to America in 1781, he led American forces against Lord Cornwallis in Virginia, setting the stage for the decisive American-French victory at the Siege of Yorktown.
After returning to France after the war, Lafayette remained a lifelong friend of the United States and was granted honorary U.S. citizenship in 2002.
Paul Revere was a prominent Boston silversmith, industrialist, and dedicated Patriot. A leading member of the Sons of Liberty, Revere organized intelligence networks to monitor British troops and co-originated anti-British agitation, including taking part in the 1773 Boston Tea Party. During the war, Revere served in the Massachusetts Militia and manufactured gunpowder for the Continental Army.
He is most well known for his dramatic midnight ride on April 18, 1775, to warn colonists of advancing British forces. Following instructions, a "one if by land, two if by sea" signal was placed in the Old North Church, alerting Revere to the British route across the Charles River. Along with William Dawes and others, Revere spread the alarm from Boston to Lexington, enabling leaders John Hancock and Samuel Adams to escape and allowing militiamen to prepare for the crucial battles of Lexington and Concord. Though captured by a British patrol shortly after his ride, his mission was successful. This was later immortalized in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's 1861 poem, "Paul Revere's Ride" transforming him into a lasting symbol of American independence and civic bravery.
Joseph Warren was a Founding Father of the United States and a central leader in the Patriot movement in Boston during the early American Revolution. A respected physician and member of the Sons of Liberty, Warren became a key political organizer. He often acted as a master spy, utilizing his intelligence network to stay ahead of British movements. Notably, on April 18, 1775, it was Warren who dispatched Paul Revere and William Dawes on their famous midnight ride to warn John Hancock and Samuel Adams of the British march toward Lexington and Concord.
Despite having little formal military training, Warren was later appointed a major general and showed immense courage by volunteering as a private soldier in the Battle of Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775, where he was killed in action at age 34.
George Washington was the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution. Tasked with fighting a superior British force, Washington formed the colonial militias into a disciplined fighting force. Despite losing more battles than he won, his resilience, strategic retreats, and crucial victories, such as the final victory at Yorktown, secured American independence.
Unanimously elected, Washington served as president from 1789 to 1797, where he implemented a strong, well-financed national government, including the creation of a national bank. His dedication to civilian control of the military, together with his voluntary retirement after two terms, helped secure the stability of American democracy.
Boston Mem[edit | edit source]
NYC People of the Revolution[edit | edit source]
Caesar was one of hundreds of sailors, White and Black, who helped the Continental Army escape from Brooklyn in 1776, enabling the rebellion to survive. Born in Africa, he was enslaved as a child and brought to North America.
Somehow, he earned his freedom, and in 1775 he joined the Revolution as part of the Marblehead regiment. This group of seamen manned the boats in the New Jersey and New York campaigns, including the famous crossing of the Delaware River. Black New Englanders like Caesar were among the Continental Army's first recruits, 150 of whom carried Washington's troops from Brooklyn Heights to Peck Slip in August 1776. The amateur military, greatly outnumbered, was badly defeated in Long Island. But they were saved by a thick fog, an early historian writing that no one in the region could remember any such weather “within the space of twenty or thirty years\". If not for the skill of mariners like Caesar, military historians agree, no more than half of the decimated rebel army would have escaped.
Nathan Hale is one of the American Revolution's most famous spies and one of its earliest martyrs. Having volunteered to stay in New York after the Battle of Long Island in order to pass information to the Revolutionary cause, the 21-year-old Patriot was hanged by the occupying British government on September 22, 1776. This underscored the importance of effective espionage practices for the rebels.
Alongside George Washington's spy ring on Long Island, intelligence-gathering was far more commonly done by everyday unsung heroes of the cause. Knowledge is typically passed mouth to mouth, through both formal and informal communication networks. Waitresses overhearing conversation between officers in a tavern passed information on to rebel informants. Slaves moving goods from city to country reported on the British army's health. Families permitted to cross battlefield lines to visit relatives shared observations in conversation and correspondence.\n
Alexander Hamilton was one of George Washington's trusted advisers during the American Revolution and the first Secretary of the Treasury of the United States. Born in 1757 in the West Indies, he was orphaned at the age of 11. His cleverness showed early, and his employers pooled their money to send him to university. Hamilton moved to New York in 1773 and began attending King's College (later Columbia University). By 1774, he was writing pro-rebel articles, and by 1775 he'd joined the volunteer militia to oppose the British. \n \nIn 1776 he formed his own artillery company, becoming a captain, before being appointed as aide-de-camp to Washington in 1777. A skilled military commander, his leadership was decisive in the Battle of Yorktown. After the war Hamilton went on to become a respected statesman, representing New York and the nation in the preservation of the principles of the revolution and formation of the new government.
William Howe was the commander in chief of the British Army in North America (1776–78). Despite several military successes, he was unable to destroy the Continental Army and stem the American Revolution.\n \nWilliam Howe had been active in North America during the French and Indian War a few years earlier, where he earned a reputation as one of the army's most brilliant young generals. He initially captured New York in 1776 when the British defeated the Americans at the Battle of Long Island and later led the campaign to capture Philadelphia. These victories were, however, not enough to defeat Washington's armies, and he resigned in 1778 to return to Britain.
Thomas Jefferson was a pivotal figure in the American Revolution, acting as a leading intellectual, a political activist, and the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. Throughout the conflict, while he did not fight on the battlefield, he sought to transform the American colonies into a modern republic, advocating for the separation of church and state, the abolition of feudal inheritance laws, and widespread educational reform. As a delegate to the Second Continental Congress in 1776, the 33-year-old Virginian was tasked with drafting the document that justified the colonies' break from Great Britain, articulating the foundational American ideals of \"Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness\".\n
Marquis de Lafayette was a French aristocrat and military officer who played a crucial role in the American Revolution, acting as a vital link between the American colonies and France. Inspired by the American cause of liberty, the 19-year-old defied King Louis XVI and traveled to America in 1777, volunteering to serve without pay. \n \nHe quickly formed a close bond with George Washington and was commissioned as a major general in the Continental Army. Lafayette proved his bravery and skill in battle and was wounded in action. This led him to return to France and lobby for increased military aid, successfully securing French troops and supplies for the colonies. Returning to America in 1781, he led American forces against Lord Cornwallis in Virginia, setting the stage for the decisive American-French victory at the Siege of Yorktown.
Francis Lewis was a Welsh-born merchant and patriot who signed the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation. As a dedicated radical in New York, he served in the Stamp Act Congress and was a member of the Committee of Sixty and the New York Provincial Congress before joining the Continental Congress from 1775 to 1779.
During the Revolutionary War, Lewis utilized his commercial experience to help secure supplies for the Continental Army, particularly through his work on the Continental Board of Admiralty. His commitment to the patriot cause came at a high personal cost. Following the Battle of Long Island in 1776, British forces destroyed his estate in Queens and imprisoned his wife. While she was later released in a prisoner exchange, the harsh conditions of her captivity severely affected her health, leading to her death in 1779. Devastated by his wife's death, Lewis subsequently retired from politics, leaving Congress in 1779 and retiring completely by 1781.
Hercules Mulligan was a vital spy for the Continental Army and a dedicated patriot during the American Revolution. Raised in New York City, he was an early member of the Sons of Liberty and a close associate of Alexander Hamilton, whom he mentored and introduced to revolutionary ideals. Working as a successful tailor, Mulligan cultivated relationships with high-ranking British Officers, allowing him to gather crucial intelligence directly from the enemy. Despite the dangers of operating within British-occupied New York, he operated as a confidential correspondent for George Washington, supplying information that helped shape the war's outcome.
Mulligan is credited with saving Washington's life on two occasions by revealing plots to capture him. Even after being suspected of spying and briefly arrested, he continued his intelligence work with the help of his enslaved assistant, Cato. Following the war, Washington solidified Mulligan's reputation as a patriot by having breakfast with him shortly after the British evacuation of New York.
Isaac Sears was the public face of the Sons of Liberty in New York City, the second and perhaps most active chapter in the colonies. He was a prosperous merchant, like so many leaders of the underground rebel group. During the mid-1700s, he made fine income as a privateer, hunting the ships of imperial rivals for the British. Only when the Sugar Act brought an end to his trade in the West Indies did the sea captain turn against Britain. During the revolution he was a member of the Committee of Sixty and was involved in raids on British troops and in the destruction of Loyalist property throughout New York City.
Anna Smith Strong was the only recorded female member of the Culper Spy Ring, a secret network established to gather intelligence for General George Washington in British-occupied New York. Living in Setauket, Long Island, she utilized her position to pass messages while avoiding suspicion, partly because her relatives were Loyalists.
Strong's fame stems from the ingenious clothesline code which she used to signal Caleb Brewster, a courier who transported intelligence across the Long Island Sound. When a message was ready to be picked up, she would hang a black petticoat on her clothesline, clearly visible from across the bay. She would add a specific number of white handkerchiefs to indicate which of the six designated coves Brewster should use to meet his contact.
George Washington was the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution. Tasked with fighting a superior British force, Washington formed the colonial militias into a disciplined fighting force. Despite losing more battles than he won, his resilience, strategic retreats, and crucial victories, such as the final victory at Yorktown, secured American independence. \n \nUnanimously elected, Washington served as president from 1789 to 1797, where he implemented a strong, well-financed national government, including the creation of a national bank. His dedication to civilian control of the military, together with his voluntary retirement after two terms, helped secure the stability of American democracy.