For this portfolio, you will write an essay on a little-known hero from the Revolutionary War era and provide a summary about his or her life and contribution to the war.
Your final product will include the following information about the person you choose to research:
· brief summary of the person’s life
· contributions to the Revolutionary War, including events leading to the outbreak of the war or contributions made during the war
· why you think this person is a hero
Your subject should not be someone obvious or famous such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Marquis de Lafayette, or Benedict Arnold, for example. Try to find someone who was just an average citizen or low-ranking soldier who stepped up in a time of need. Be sure to include where you found your information.
Title: Unsung Heroes of the Revolutionary War: The Resilient Spirit of Joseph Plumb Martin
Introduction:
The American Revolutionary War was a pivotal period in American history, leading to the establishment of the United States of America. While countless well-known figures have been commemorated for their contributions, it is important to also recognize the unsung heroes who played integral roles in securing independence. Among them, Joseph Plumb Martin, an average citizen turned low-ranking soldier, stands as a testament to the resilience and bravery displayed during this crucial period.
Summary of Joseph Plumb Martin’s Life:
Joseph Plumb Martin was born on November 21, 1760, in Becket, Massachusetts. At the age of fifteen, Martin enlisted in the Continental Army, driven by his patriotic spirit and desire to contribute towards American freedom. Martin was by no means an extraordinary person but a common citizen who answered the call to serve his country.
Contributions to the Revolutionary War:
Martin’s contributions to the Revolutionary War were significant, demonstrating unwavering dedication and sacrifice. He enlisted for three years and eight months, serving until the conclusion of the war in 1783. Martin faced numerous hardships and challenges during his service, enduring grueling conditions and experiencing firsthand the harsh realities of war.
Throughout the war, Martin was involved in key events and battles that shaped the outcome of the conflict. As a private and later a sergeant, he fought in battles such as the defense of Fort Mifflin, the pivotal Battle of Monmouth, and the harsh winter encampment at Valley Forge. His perseverance and resilience during these dire circumstances exemplify the determination exhibited by many unsung heroes of the Revolution.
Martin’s invaluable contribution extended beyond the battlefield. After serving in the army, he penned his memoir, "A Narrative of Some of the Adventures, Dangers, and Sufferings of a Revolutionary Soldier." Published in 1830, Martin’s memoir provided a first-hand account of the hardships faced by the common soldier. His work shed light on the realities of war and serves as an important historical document providing insight into the everyday experiences of soldiers during the Revolutionary War.
Why Joseph Plumb Martin is a Hero:
Joseph Plumb Martin is a hero because, despite his limited rank and anonymity, he exemplifies the virtues of bravery, sacrifice, and commitment to the cause of liberty. He endured the harshest of conditions and stood firm in the face of adversity, never wavering in his dedication to the ideals for which the Revolution was fought.
Unlike the more famous figures of the Revolutionary War, Martin represents millions of other common soldiers who fought without the prospect of glory, recognition, or a place in history. His humility and modesty stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of the American spirit.
Sources:
To gather information for this essay, I utilized various sources:
1. Martin, Joseph Plumb. "A Narrative of Some of the Adventures, Dangers, and Sufferings of a Revolutionary Soldier." Published by Barnes & Noble Publishing, 2006.
2. "Joseph Plumb Martin." American Battlefield Trust. www.battlefields.org; Accessed 15 November 2021.
3. "Life of Joseph Plumb Martin." Historic Valley Forge. www.ushistory.org; Accessed 15 November 2021.
4. Philbrick, Nathaniel. "Valiant Ambition: George Washington, Benedict Arnold, and the Fate of the American Revolution." Viking, 2016.