Revolutionary War

Crispus Attucks
March 5th, 1770 Crispus Attucks and the date itself would never be forgotten and the story is still taught in classes throughout America today. Crispus would go down as a martyr for the American Revolution and the event itself would inspire rebellion in many. Crispus was born around 1723 in Massachusetts to a African father and Indian mother. Not much else is really known about Crispus until the fateful day. Crispus Attucks

The day began like any other, until a commotion was heard in the streets and Crispus went to investigate. Upon arrival he discovered a brewing fight between some Boston men and British soldiers. Crispus then went to the front of the crowd and struck one of the soldiers and was immediately fired upon. Five colonists in total would be killed during the ensuing fire, and six would be wounded. The colonists would gather the bodies of the dead men and carry them to be held until a funeral could be arranged. A few days later, businesses closed so that all could attend the funeral for the killed men. Historians have heavily debated whether Crispus was a hero or a villain, but all say that he was the first to die in the American Revolution. Crispus and his actions were used to stir up patriotic fervor and compel all colonists to rebel against the British.

Facts...
  • About 5,000 Blacks fought against the British
  • Those that fought for the British Army faced persecution and death as other's deemed traitors
  • Black soldiers after the war were still not recognized as qualified soldiers due to the racial divide
  • Blacks were allowed to enlist because Army commanders feared that the Army was not large enough to defeat the British

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