In 1776, America was torn: between loyalty to the British Crown, and its own desire for independence. 250 years later, digitized eyewitness accounts provide insights into daily life during the War of Independence for the first time.
Newly transcribed pension claims from the United States’ National Archives bring to life the experiences of people during the American War of Independence, between 1775 and 1783. They recount how they fought, suffered, and persevered despite great hardships - inspired by the words of the Founding Fathers and under the leadership of George Washington, who, as commander-in-chief, led the American troops to victory over the British. When signing the Declaration of Independence in 1776, the stakes could not have been higher: Had the uprising failed, every soldier and every delegate would have faced charges of treason and death.
The documentary shows that the founding of the American republic was shaped not only by famous figures, but by countless courageous voices whose stories are only now coming to light.
Why did 22-year-old militiaman William French take up arms after the first shots were fired at Lexington and Concord? Men like James Potter Collins describe the chaos of battles such as Bunker Hill, Brandywine, Long Island, and Yorktown. Women like Deborah Sampson fight on the front lines in disguise, while others, like Susannah Chandler, protect their families at home. Veteran soldiers like John Boudy risk everything, as do the rebel armies in the South. Enslaved people like Prince Griswold place their lives at stake.
After the victory, the values of the Declaration of Independence (with ideals such as "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”) spread like wildfire - yet for many who fought, the promise of freedom remains unfulfilled.
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