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Culper Code Book

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Transcript of the Culpeper Code Book

The Culper Code Book was used by the Culper spy ring to send coded messages to George Washington's headquarters during the Revolutionary War. Informants used fake names and a numerical code book consisting of seven hundred and sixty-three numbers representing words, names, and places to communicate their information. The Culper Code Book was essential in protecting the vital communications and identities of this important intelligence gathering group.

Consider these questions while analyzing the Code Book:

  • Why do you think Washington sent coded messages?
    • What benefits and drawbacks come from this method of communication?
  • How would you try and crack this code? Do you think the British figured out the key?
  • What do you think happened to those convicted of espionage? How were spies useful in the Revolutionary War?
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