We commonly think of the American Revolution as simply the war for independence from British colonial rule. But; of course; that independence actually applied to only a portion of the American population—African Americans would still be bound in slavery for nearly another century. Alan Gilbert asks us to rethink what we know about the Revolutionary War; to realize that while white Americans were fighting for their freedom; many black Americans were joining the British imperial forces to gain theirs. Further; a movement led by sailors—both black and white—pushed strongly for emancipation on the American side. There were actually two wars being waged at once: a political revolution for independence from Britain and a social revolution for emancipation and equality.
#874248 in Books Alan Gilbert 2013-09-18 2012-04-20Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.10 x 6.00l; 1.63 #File Name: 022610155X392 pagesBlack Patriots and Loyalists
Review
0 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A new storyBy Sean Patrick Innocent DineenExcellent. A untapped source of revolution history. The vital contribution of African americans5 of 7 people found the following review helpful. 2 RebellionsBy Richard ComfortThis is a missing piece of the American Revolution. It begins with the British offer of freedom to slaves in exchange for participation in the Crown's army. Blacks joined in droves. At the decisive battle of Yorktown blacks fought for both sides. The result was mostly black bodies left on the battle field. What the slaves received from the English after the war was over is a commentary on two rebellions. One was a victory for white American patriots. The other was a disaster for slaves. After reading this story no American can think of the Revolution in the same light as we learned about it in school. Shame on American history as taught to us in our schools. But; then again; isn't that often the case?3 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Highly RecommendedBy Mark TwainThis is one of the most in-depth and interesting accounts of Black American history.
