The Colored Patriots of the American Revolution facts for kids
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| Author | William Cooper Nell and Harriet Beecher Stowe |
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| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | History |
| Publisher | Robert F. Wallcut |
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Publication date
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1855 |
The Colored Patriots of the American Revolution is an important history book. It was written by William Cooper Nell in 1855. The book tells the stories of African-American soldiers. These brave people fought in the American Revolution and the War of 1812. Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote the introduction.
It talks about heroes like Crispus Attucks. He was the first person to die in the Boston Massacre. Peter Salem helped win the Battle of Bunker Hill. Prince Whipple was with George Washington when he crossed the Delaware River. Many people believe this was the first history book. It was written by an African American about African Americans. It used real documents and facts.
Contents
About the Book's History
In 1851, William Cooper Nell wrote a history book. It was called Services of Colored Americans in the Wars of 1776 and 1812. This book became very important for African-American studies. A few years later, Nell wrote The Colored Patriots of the American Revolution. This book also became widely read. It was often taught in schools during that time.
Nell shared his goal for the book. He said, "If others fail to appreciate the merit of the colored man, let us cherish the deserted shrine. The names which others neglect should only be the more sacredly our care." This means he wanted to honor those forgotten heroes.
What's Inside the Book?
The book is 396 pages long. It has 18 chapters filled with stories. It includes short biographies of "Distinguished Colored Persons." The book also has an introduction by Harriet Beecher Stowe. She was an American writer and abolitionist. She wrote the famous novel Uncle Tom's Cabin in 1852.
Harriet Beecher Stowe's Introduction
In her introduction, Mrs. Stowe explains the book's purpose. She said it aimed to highlight American Patriots. These heroes had been "all but forgotten." She hoped the book would help reduce unfair ideas. This included prejudices from both white and black people.
She noted that African Americans were enslaved in the colonies. Their laws "oftener oppressed than protected." She added that "Bravery, under such circumstances, has a peculiar beauty and merit." This means their courage was even more special.
Mrs. Stowe concluded with a powerful message. She wrote that bravery is not tied to race. She believed that "the image of the Heavenly Father may be reflected alike by all." She hoped the book would help change unfair public opinions. This would give African Americans full opportunities.
Stories from the States
The book dedicates chapters to different states. It shares stories of patriots from each area.
Massachusetts Heroes
The first chapter focuses on heroes from Massachusetts. It tells about Crispus Attucks. He is seen as the first person to die in the American Revolution. The chapter also mentions African Americans at Bunker Hill. These include Seymour Burr and Phillis Wheatley.
New Hampshire and Vermont
Chapter II talks about Jude Hall from New Hampshire. Chapter III features Lemuel Haynes from Vermont. He was a "Colored Patriot" who escorted 700 British soldiers.
Rhode Island's Regiment
Chapter IV highlights Rhode Island. It mentions the "Colored Regiment of Rhode Island." This group showed great loyalty during the Dorr Rebellion.
Connecticut's Brave Soldiers
Chapter V shares stories from Connecticut. It includes Captain Humphrey's Colored Company. It also shows a copy of a certificate from General Washington.
New York and New Jersey
Chapter VI covers New York's "Colored Soldiery." Chapter VII features heroes from New Jersey. These include Oliver Cromwell and Samuel Charlton.
Pennsylvania's Patriots
Chapter VIII focuses on Pennsylvania. It tells about James Forten and John B. Vashon. It also describes how colored Philadelphians behaved during a sickness.
Delaware and Maryland
Chapter IX talks about Delaware. It mentions Prince Whipple and the "Colored Soldier at the crossing of the Delaware." Chapter X covers Maryland's heroes. These include Thomas Savoy and Benjamin Banneker.
Virginia's Contributions
Chapter XI highlights Virginia. It shares stories like "The last of Braddock's Men." It also mentions General Washington's wish to free enslaved people.
North and South Carolina
Chapter XII covers North Carolina. It talks about David Walker. Chapter XIII focuses on South Carolina. It mentions the "Veteran of Fort Moultrie."
Georgia, Kentucky, and Ohio
Chapter XIV tells stories from Georgia. Chapter XV features heroes from Kentucky. These include Henry Boyd and Lewis Hayden. Chapter XVI discusses progress in Ohio.
Louisiana and Florida
Chapter XVII highlights Louisiana. It mentions General Jackson's proclamation. It also talks about "Colored Veterans" in the Battle of Orleans. Jordan B. Noble, the Drummer, is also featured. Chapter XVIII concludes with Toney Proctor from Florida.
The Book in Pop Culture
The book was mentioned on a TV show. Glenn Beck had a series called Founders Friday. Two episodes were about Black Founders. David Barton appeared on these shows. He mentioned The Colored Patriots of the American Revolution.
