List of Patriots (American Revolution) facts for kids

Patriots were colonists in the Thirteen Colonies who wanted to break away from British rule during the American Revolution. They believed the colonies should be independent and govern themselves. Many Patriots worked in different ways to achieve this freedom.

Who Were the Patriots?

The Patriots were people living in America who supported the idea of independence from Great Britain. They felt that the British government was treating the colonies unfairly. They believed in self-governance, meaning the colonies should make their own laws. This strong desire for freedom led to the American Revolutionary War.

Different Ways Patriots Helped

Patriots came from all walks of life. They were not just soldiers. Many were thinkers, writers, and leaders who helped shape the new nation. Others were brave fighters who risked their lives for freedom.

Leaders and Thinkers

Many Patriots were important leaders and thinkers. They worked to create new laws and governments. They also wrote powerful words that inspired others to join the cause.

• John Adams was a lawyer and a strong voice for independence. He later became the second President of the United States.
• Benjamin Franklin was a famous inventor, writer, and diplomat. He helped convince France to support the American cause.
• Thomas Jefferson was the main writer of the Declaration of Independence. He later became the third President.
• John Hancock was a wealthy merchant and a leader in Boston. He was known for his large signature on the Declaration of Independence.
• James Madison helped write the U.S. Constitution. He is often called the "Father of the Constitution."
• Thomas Paine wrote powerful pamphlets like Common Sense. These writings convinced many colonists to support independence.
• Patrick Henry was a fiery speaker. He famously declared, "Give me liberty, or give me death!"

Brave Soldiers and Commanders

Many Patriots fought bravely in the Continental Army and local militias. They faced the powerful British army and navy.

• George Washington was the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. He led the Americans to victory and became the first President.
• Nathanael Greene was a brilliant general. He played a key role in the southern campaigns of the war.
• Marquis de Lafayette was a young French nobleman. He came to America to fight alongside the Patriots. He became a trusted friend of George Washington.
• John Paul Jones was a naval hero. He famously said, "I have not yet begun to fight!" during a fierce sea battle.
• Francis Marion was known as the "Swamp Fox." He led small groups of soldiers in surprise attacks against the British.
• Nathan Hale was an American spy. He was captured by the British and executed. His last words were, "I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country."

African-American Patriots

African Americans also played important roles in the American Revolution. Many fought for freedom, hoping it would also lead to their own liberty.

• Crispus Attucks was an African-American man. He was one of the first people killed in the Boston Massacre. This event helped spark the Revolution.
• James Armistead Lafayette was an enslaved African American. He served as a spy for the Continental Army. He provided valuable information about British movements.
• Salem Poor was a free African-American soldier. He fought with great courage at the Battle of Bunker Hill. His bravery was recognized by many officers.
• Peter Salem was another African-American soldier. He also fought bravely at Bunker Hill. He is credited with firing the shot that killed a British officer.