Interpreting the Evidence
Resolutions Pertaining to the Clothier General (with lists), American Revolution, June 18, 1781
Suggested Teaching Instructions
Document Description
United States Congress committee report about the Clothier General and obligations to provide clothing annually to all non-commissioned officers and soldiers who enlisted during the Revolutionary War, June 18, 1781.
Historical Context
As the impending war drew closer, the newly independent states needed to raise and supply an army capable of defeating a major world power: Great Britain. Originally defended by the local militia, the former colonies established the Continental Army in April of 1775. George Washington was named the Commander-in-Chief. Washington and leaders in the government set out to furnish an army that could defeat England, and fight for their independence.
The matter of supplying an army was of great concern for these new states. At the very least, soldiers needed food, clothing, and weapons. The army used several means to supply the army, ranging from issuing bills of credit to foraging.
The matter of supplying an army was of great concern for these new states. At the very least, soldiers needed food, clothing, and weapons. The army used several means to supply the army, ranging from issuing bills of credit to foraging.
Essential Question
How did the need to supply an army impact the newly independent states?
Check for Understanding
Write a paragraph explaining the answer to the following question, using evidence from the document: What problems or issues did this resolution try to resolve?
Historical Challenges
Research the manufacturing of clothing during this time period. Who made the clothing for the soldiers of the Continental Army? How would the large need of clothing and supplies effect the economy of the United States?
Interdisciplinary Connections
Art: Create a drawing of a soldier in the Continental Army. Be sure to include the clothing that each soldier wore, based on the document.
Math: Create a histogram showing the amount of each type of clothing needed by the soldiers (as listed in the primary document) for a troop of 50 soldiers.