1775
At our last meeting, I mentioned the date of 18 April 1775. However, I would first like to mention 23 March 1775. That was the day that Patrick Henry delivered an address to the Virginia Provincial Convention in which he declared, “Give me liberty or give me death!”
A month later, according to an article in the Epoch Times written by Alan Wakim, Paul Revere set off through the darkened streets of Boston on his famous ride. It was 10 P.M. on 18 April. Dr. Joseph Warren had brought urgent news that the British Regulars (the Redcoats) were boarding whaleboats to cross the Charles River.
As you remember, a signal system had been set up with allies across the river in Charlestown . One lantern from the Old North Church steeple if the British Regulars were coming by land through the Neck, or two if by sea, meaning they were coming by boats. Two lanterns were held less than a minute and seen not only by the patriots, but also by the loyalists, the British Regulars, and the British sailors.
Paul started his ride to warn the colonists and within minutes, he was pursued by British horsemen, from whom he narrowly escaped. He shouted, “Turn out your militia! The regulars are coming out”, alarming almost every house until he got to Lexington. Riders from each town continued to spread the alarm to additional towns including the town of Concord.
Once again, the British officers set an ambush and this time Revere was captured. Under interrogation, Revere told his captors that every town was fully aware of their mission and had all mobilized their militias. Distant bells and musket fire confirmed his warning. He was released, but without his horse, so he walked to Lexington.
At 4:30 A.M. on 19 April, the British Regulars arrived at Lexington. The 77armed militiamen were given strict orders to not molest the Regulars. “Stand your ground., Don’t fire unless fired upon.” The Regulars shouted, “Lay down your arms ye damned rebels! Disperse! ” Fearing for his men’s lives, American Captain Parker finally ordered the militia to disperse, but to keep their weapons
Suddenly, a shot ran out, but no one knew who fired it. “It was the shot heard round the world.” Chaos erupted. The British opened fire, militia men fired back. A bayonet charge followed. Eight Americans lay dead or dying. Ten more were wounded. The War for American Independence had begun.