When Washington took command of the Continental Army, he had to unite different peoples of different faiths - or otherwise, risk losing the war.
The Continental Army
In order to unite his army against the British, Washington embraced the religious diversity of his soldiers. He made a point of worshiping with different denominations and provided chaplains to the men. Click here to find out more about Washington's army.
Fighting the Revolution
Trinity Church
Many clergy members of the Church of England remained loyal throughout the war; the ministers at Trinity Church in Philadelphia was no exception. Learn more about the role of Trinity Church in the American Revolution
Conflict in Church
Yorktown
Washington's victory at Yorktown affirmed his leadership skills; he successfully united peoples of different faiths and won the war. Learn more about the Battle of Yorktown and how it led to peace negotiations.
The World Turned Upside DownHow do you think religion in America influenced the Revolutionary War?
Interact with the American Revolution
Click the link to go to an interactive timeline!
Maps of the Revolutionary War
A collection of historical maps related to the Revolutionary War campaigns of General Washington
Boston, its environs and harbor, with the rebels works raised against that town in 1775
Plan of New York in 1776
Howe's Attack on Brooklyn
Forts Washington and Lee in New York
Plan of White Plains
The Battle of Trenton
Plan of Princeton
The Battle of Brandywine
The Battle of Germantown
The Battle of Monmouth
The Yorktown Campaign
Siege of Yorktown
Primary Source: the Declaration of Independence
In July of 1776, Congress officially passed the Declaration of Independence, severing ties between the colonies and Great Britain. Explore the Declaration of Independence with this link.
Primary Source: General Orders
Washington would often issue "General Orders" to his army. On June 28, 1777, Washington wrote;
"All Chaplains are to perform divine service to morrow, and on every succeeding Sunday, with their respective brigades and regiments, where the situation will possibly admit of it: And the commanding officers of corps are to see that they attend; themselves, with officers of all ranks, setting the example."
Washington expected his soldiers to attend a religious service in order to maintain morality in his army.
Primary Source: Victory at Yorktown
The Battle of Yorktown in 1781 led to American victory in the American War of Independence. This proved that people of different beliefs can work together in pursuit of a common cause.
Why did Washington embrace religious diversity in his army? Why would this be significant?
More on the Revolution
Click the links to read about the war!
Watch Religious Freedom
Learn how George Washington successfully established religious freedom in America with this 15 minute film!
Religious Freedom Home
Click the link to go back to Religious Freedom Classroom Resources
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