Understanding Primary Sources: American Revolution

Drawn from Gale’s acclaimed Reference Library products, this concise study guide helps you explore central ideas of primary sources in their historical context. Profiles of the authors and surrounding events; timelines and images; engaging research, discussion and activity ideas; “Did you know?” facts; and additional features make this guide valuable for students and lifelong learners. Primary sources covered: Comments of Lieutenant John Whiting on (Benedict) Arnold's treason, General George Washington's announcement to the Continental Army of Arnold's treason, Closing lines of George Washington's summary of the treason story, and "An Acrostic—On Arnold"; and excerpts from Lord Dunmore’s “Declaration of Martial Law in Virginia,” Joseph Plumb Martin’s “A Narrative of Some of the Adventures, Dangers, and Sufferings of a Revolutionary Soldier,” Thomas Paine’s “The Crisis,” Eliza Wilkinson's account of the looting of her sister's home by British soldiers, Horace Walpole's letter to the Earl of Strafford, and George Washington's Farewell Address to the Armies of the United States.