HEROINES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
by Idella Bodie
Women played important roles on the home front and the battlefield during the American Revolution. Many have never been recognized for their contributions. Some
historians consider their brave deeds legends.
99 pages. 2003. Reading level:
Ages 9-12
ISBN 13: 978-0-87844-170-9, ISBN 10:
0-87844-170-0,
Softcover $9.95
From the book:
While husbands and sons were away fighting,
British soldiers and Tories threatened women. The wives who chose to stay
in their homes to try to keep them from being plundered suffered cruelty.
They often slept in their clothes, jumping up at the least noise.
Many cringed in fear when Tories entered their
homes with swords drawn to take personal possessions. Others saw their
homes burn as they fled to the forest with their children. When the
British took over large homes for their headquarters, the women had to prepare
and serve meals for the enemy.
Many women nursed wounded soldiers, even
turning their homes into hospitals. A large number carried messages, some
as couriers and others as spies. A small number disguised themselves as
men and fought in battle.
The Revolutionary War changed the way society
looked at women.
