Wheatley’s poem was the first to show Washington as a leader during the war, not after the war. Wheatley’s heroic depiction of Washington was a useful tool for gaining support of Washington and the whole Continental Army. Using political influence to generate support was not the only way women were assisting the Continental Army.
Women also gave an immeasurable amount of assistance on the battlefield. In the book, Weathering the Storm by Elizabeth Evans, the author quotes Colonel Henry Jackson, who stated, “...Robert Shurtleff was a soldier in my regiment in the Continental Army ... and was enlisted for the term of three years; that he had the confidence of his officers, did his duty as a faithful and good soldier and was honorably discharged” (303). Robert Shurtleff was an alias used by a woman named Deborah Sampson. Deborah Sampson was one of several women who dressed as a man to act in combat in the Continental Army. Sampson was as important and helpful to the American Revolution as any foot soldier to the army. The campaigns Sampson was a part of were important to the grand scheme of the revolution and therefore make Sampson an useful and …show more content…
This is evident when Snodgrass discusses the famed Abigail Adams stating how, “She insisted John continue his public work, for she believed in independence as much as she did” (189). It is well known that John Adams’ main advisor was his wife, Abigail. Abigail was a large influence on John getting involved in the political side of the Revolution. John Adams always listened to Abigail and held her advice and opinions in high esteem. Her belief in American independence was as much a factor in John’s decision as his own belief. Abigail Adams is just one famous example; many women influenced their husbands by encouraging them. In the article, “Men and Women of the American Revolution have unique stories” by Wayne Greene, Greene writes that “[Martha Washington] and the wives of the other generals sewed, cooked, nursed, led prayers and offered entertainment to the troops, who always cheered her into camp” (2). One of the other battles soldiers faced was a battle of morale. Visits from more well known and well-loved wives, such as Martha Washington, always had a great reaction. The fact that this woman was cheered into camp shows her positive influence on morale and general cheer. The encouragement and entertainment provided by many women like Washington affected the men, whether they were with them on the battlefield or sending letters from home. Many women were