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Abigail Adams
wife of John Adams and patriot; she believed in women's rights.
Declaration of Independence
the document that announced that the American colonies were breaking away from Great Britain
and explained why
equality
having the same rights and privileges
as othesr
George Washington
a plantation owner from Virginia; commander of the Patriot army during the Revolution and
first President of the United States
militia
a body of mostly untrained, part-time
soldiers, but who could serve full-time if
needed
minutemen
a Patriot volunteer who was paid and trained to be ready to fight at a minute's notice
Paul Revere
patriot and minuteman. He is famous for warning the patriots of the advancing British army
before the Battle of Lexington and Concord.
Phillis Wheatley
African American slave and famous poet. Wrote a poem honoring George Washington
Second Continental Congress
the meeting of delegates from the American colonies that began in Philadelphia in 1775. This
congress set the revolution in motion.
Sons of Liberty
a secret group of patriots who helped organize the Revolution; they dressed up as Indians for the
"Boston Tea Party"
Thomas Jefferson
a patriot and main writer of the Declaration of Independence. He also served as the 3rd President
of the United States.
Thomas Paine
a patriot who wrote "Common Sense" and other famous works which convinced many people to
support the Revolution. Paine believed in the equality of people and they should govern themselves.