The American Revolution

Did you know that most Americans during the War for our Independence were still loyal to England? Or that George Washington, our general in charge of the armies lost a majority of the battles he fought? How about that a large part of our armies were made up of men who weren't even Americans having just recently come over from Europe?

The American Revolution is pivotal to our understanding what the United States is all about. Yet, we have so many misconceptions. Here’s a big one. The British fought in long lines of men shoulder to shoulder in the open, while Americans fought kneeling down behind rocks and trees. Nothing could be further from the truth. General Washington was trained by the British and fought as an officer in the British Army during the French and Indian War in the 1750’s. Americans were taught to stand up and fight just like the British and by the end of the war, even the British government had to confess that these “bumpkins” were brave and effective soldiers.

This program really delights both students and adults. You will learn facts about the Revolution that you never knew. Medicine,women’s rights, slavery, how the battles were fought, clothing, food and so much more. Experience how marriages were arranged and how people got jobs. What were the issues for the common man during the war? Why did the Revolution succeed and what part did the French play in helping us to win our freedom? What were the lessons that we can gain from studying the War for American Independence?

So many other questions also need to be addressed.

• How did the northern colonies differ from the southern ones?
• Did the colonial armies live off of the  British or gather their own food?
• What was the Colonial Navy like? Did they fight against the British or regularly run from them?

Deks brings this alive through costumes, artifacts, flags, food and a lively storytelling. As with all of the programs, the students love to dress up.  Take a look a the two students in the picture to the right. Kids of all ages love to learn through touch and feel, although the young man in the top picture doesn't look too confident as Deks shows how medicine was done in the 18th century!! Learn about heroes and villains, of the famous and the infamous. The students will gain a real appreciation for the sacrifices their ancestors made for the freedoms they now enjoy.

"Freedom never comes cheap nor is the easy route to take.  One of the most unfortunate situations today is the lack of knowledge our young people have on what freedom gives us and what life would be like without it. I have heard many who say they wouldn't stand against tyranny or risk their life or property for freedom. Frankly, this sad thinking is why this program is so important for me to give to people. America is the greatest country in the world and a beacon which sits on a hill.  It must be defended and our freedoms refreshed with each new generation. It is our job to show them." - Deks on the program 'The American Revolution'"