The American revolution The role of women, slaves, and Native Americans

The Role of Women Women took on many roles in the American Revolution Some were traditional while some were scandalous and unconventional These women who participated are considered to be part of the Daughters of Liberty

The Role of Women as Nurses They were “camp followers” (mothers, daughters, and wives who followed their male companions for food and protection) Nurses received $.24 a day and a full food ration Most nurses actually fed and bathed soldiers, emptied chamber pots

The Role of Women as Seamstresses, Cooks, and Maids Most common roles Cooks, maids, laundresses, water bearers, and seamstresses for the army Most were poor wives and daughters who were accustomed to doing housework

The Role of Women as Soldiers Women were not allowed to join the military, but some served as secret soldiers Disguised themselves as men by cutting their hair, binding their breasts with bandages, and adopting masculine names. Most were young, unmarried, and poor and wanted to earn money to support their families

The Role of Women as Spies Many women served as spies (the actual number is not known) Many worked as cooks and maids for the militaries and would eavesdrop on conversations They carried messages to those they spied for while making deliveries of supplies

The Role of Slaves in the American Revolution African American soldiers fought at Lexington & Concord (Apr 1775), but the 2nd Continental Congress stopped enlistment and later stopped it after the British tried to enlist the slaves They had important roles at Fort Ticonderoga and Bunker Hill Several thousand slaves won their freedom from their service Others freed themselves by running away

The Role of Native Americans Native Americans saw the war as a disaster Patriots tried to get the Natives to help them strategize using the land, but Natives knew that independence would be a further threat to them (in other words- they didn’t trust the Americans) Most Native tribes chose to support the British including the Iroquois Confederacy (six tribes that united) American victory affected Native lands (even those who sided with the Americans)