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Interpreting the Evidence

Letter from Nathaniel Greene to his Wife, December 7, 1780

  • Documents in this Activity:
  • Historical Eras:

    Revolution and New Nation (1754 - 1820s)

  • Thinking Skill:

    Historical Analysis & Interpretation

  • Grade Level:

    Middle School
    High School
    College University

  • Topics:

    American Revolution
    Women

  • Primary Source Types:

    Written Document

  • Regions:

    New York State

  • Creator:

    NYS Archives Partnership Trust Education Team

  1. Load Letter from Nathaniel Greene to his Wife, December 7, 1780 in Main Image Viewer
  2. Load Letter from Nathaniel Greene to his Wife, December 7, 1780 in Main Image Viewer
  3. Load Letter from Nathaniel Greene to his Wife, December 7, 1780 in Main Image Viewer

Suggested Teaching Instructions

Document Description
Letter from Nathaniel Greene to his wife, December 7, 1780.
Historical Context
Although the American Revolution was physically fought by men, both women and children were greatly affected by war. Without their husbands and fathers, many women and children were left to run the farm and fulfill the male role on the home front. Conversely, some women traveled with the army and helped to prepare food, mend garments, and help care for the injured. Needless to say, the role of women during the American Revolution varied greatly and as a result so did the effects.     
Essential Quetion
How did the war affect the lives of women and children?
Check for Understanding
Each student will be expected to write a historically accurate letter using historical background information to create a response to Nathaniel Green.  The letter should be a creative response that indicates how his wife is becoming involved in the war effort.