In 1775, Britain ruled 13 colonies on the East Coast of North America that ran from Massachusetts to Georgia.
Many colonists were tired of British rule. They had argued with Britain for years about taxes and laws they thought were unfair. Finally, in April 1775, fighting broke out between the colonists and the British army. The American Revolution had begun.
At the time of the Revolution, a woman’s role in society was limited. Most women were expected to spend their lives taking care of their homes and family. Women prepared meals over an open fire, milked the cows, and fed the chickens. They churned butter and made candles and soap. Most of them also made their family’s clothing. Poor women and enslaved African-American women did all this while working for other people. Women were not expected to take part in politics or business. The world of politics was for white male property owners.
Still, many women became involved in events leading up to the Revolution and in the Revolution itself. Some were Patriots who believed in independence for the colonies. Others were Loyalists who supported Britain’s king. All were very brave to step outside of their traditional roles.