Chapter 6 Section 3: The War Widens

The Widening War Many early battles of the American Revolution were fought in the Northeast. But the struggle for independence was waged on many fronts and affected Americans in all parts of the country

African Americans in the War African Americans fought on both sides during the war The British offered freedom to enslaved people who deserted and joined the British Some people who had formerly been enslaved also joined the British

African Americans in the War On the American side at first refused to accept African American soldiers By the end of the war 7,000 served on the American side Most southern states refused to allow slaves in the army because they feared revolt

The War at Home Men often enlisted for 1year terms Making it hard for Washington to keep the ranks filled Civilians faced hardships such as food shortages and military attack

Women With men at war women took over many of their duties Some women accompanied their husbands to military camps They often cared for the wounded and took water to the troops

Deborah Sampson Disguised as a man to fight in the Revolutionary War She was wounded in battle and addressed her own wounds to keep her secret

Molly Pitcher Mary Ludwig Hayes carried water for soldiers and took over for her wounded husband.

Financial Burden Congress had limited resources No power to tax To pay and supply troops they printed paper money The more money they printed the less it was worth

Native Americans Take Sides Most sided with Great Britain They feared American victory would lead to more settlers moving west onto their land

Defending the Frontier Virginia sent George Rogers Clark and a militia force to strike British forts beyond the Appalachian Mountains in 1778 His victories allowed settlers to stay on the frontier

Help From the Spanish Spain was eager to get back Florida Bernardo De Galvez, Governor of Louisiana, provided money and munitions to Clark and other Americans 1779-1781 Galvez played a key role in Spanish attacks

The War at Sea Continental Navy created in 1775 Colonists resorted to hit and run attacks British ships set up blockades around American ports Privateers were more successful in breaking through the blockade and capturing British ships

John Paul Jones His ship the Bonhomme Richard, captured the British ship the Serapis. Naval hero for the Americans Famous quote “I have not yet begun to fight”