Important People & Sayings of the American Revolution

King George III The current King of Britain Known as “His Majesty”

Benjamin Franklin Sent to France to secure them as allies!

George Washington Commander of the Continental Army and helped keep them together

Patrick Henry “Give me liberty or give me death!” -Speech at the Virginia Convention in 1775, this speech swung the vote in favor of Virginia sending troops.

Thomas Jefferson One of the Main authors of the Declaration of Independence (Also the 3rd President)

Poor Richard’s Almanack Written by Benjamin Franklin mixture of seasonal weather forecasts, practical household hints, puzzles, and other amusements. Widely read throughout households across the colonies, why might that be important?

Common Sense By Thomas Paine challenged the authority of the British government and the royal monarchy. The plain language that Paine used spoke to the common people of America was the first work to openly ask for independence from Great Britain.

Two Treatises of Gov’t Political philosophy published anonymously in 1689 by John Locke ideas for a more civilized society based on natural rights Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness Where have you heard that before?

Marquis de Lafayette French aristocrat who helped lead the Continental Army and the French against Britain

Friedrich von Steuben Prussian military officer who came to Valley Forge to help train the men. Ran lots of drills, and brought encouragement and discipline! Communication?

Paul Revere - “Made” the engraving of the “Bloody Massacre” - “The regulars are coming! The regulars are coming!”

Paul John Jones “I have not yet begun to fight.” -Fought in one of the bloodiest engagements, his vessel was burning but when asked to surrender he replied ^ & 3 hours later Britain surrendered -Naval officer

Benedict Arnold -Was an early hero of the war -Conspired with the British to betray the Patriots -Was figured out, and hid out in the British camp throughout the war

John Hancock "There, I guess King George will be able to read that!” -We’re not really sure if he did say anything or have a reason for signing his name so big (he was the 1st to sign)

“Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes” -Colonel William Prescott (we think) -Said at the Battle of Bunker Hill