Peter Salem: A Brave Abolitionist and Hero of the Revolutionary War
The Revolutionary War was a pivotal moment in American history, where the colonists fought for independence from British rule. Amidst the bravery and sacrifice of the war, one unsung hero stood out – Peter Salem, a former slave who became a courageous warrior and a symbol of African American courage. In this article, we will explore what Peter Salem did in the Revolutionary War and how he contributed to the American Revolution.
Early Life and Escape
Born in Easton, Massachusetts, in the late 1700s, Peter Salem was a slave owned by General Samuel Thatcher. Abolitionist principles, however, influenced his future, as he was befriended by a Quaker named William Rotch, who believed in the abolishment of slavery. With Rotch’s help, Peter Salem escaped from his cruel master in 1776 and joined the Continental Army.
Enlistment and Military Service
After joining the Continental Army, Peter Salem enlisted in Colonel John Glover’s 14th Continental Regiment, composed mainly of sailors and soldiers from Marblehead, Massachusetts. Glover, a prominent figure in the war, recognized Peter’s bravery and skills, using him as a scout, messenger, and skirmisher. Salem fought in several battles, including the Battle of Bennington, Bunker Hill, and the Battle of Bunker’s Hill**.
Notable Actions
Salem’s bravery and expertise in combat earned him a reputation as a formidable fighter. One of his most notable actions was during the Battle of Bunker Hill, where he fought bravely alongside Colonel Loammi Baldwin and his regiment. Salem distinguished himself by capturing a British officer, securing crucial information about British forces and contributing to the Americans’ successful defense of Breed’s Hill.
Assault on the Redoubts
In May 1777, General John Burgoyne launched an invasion from Canada, aiming to capture Albany, New York, and split the colonies in two. The Continental Army, led by General Horatio Gates, successfully repelled the attack. Peter Salem played a pivotal role in this battle, assisting in the assault on the Redoubts. Salem, along with other Continental soldiers, led the charge against the Redoubts, securing them and helping to turn the tide of the battle in favor of the Americans.
Capture of Burgoyne’s Army
Saratoga is often considered the turning point of the Revolutionary War, as General Burgoyne’s army was captured or forced to surrender on October 17, 1777. Peter Salem participated in this decisive battle, fighting alongside other Continental troops. The victory at Saratoga convinced France to ally with the Americans, shifting the balance of power in the war.
Post-War Life and Legacy
After the Revolutionary War, Peter Salem remained in the Continental Army and continued to serve with distinction. In 1779, he was given a land grant in Marstons Mills, Massachusetts, and settled there after the war. Salem later became a respected member of his community, participating in local politics and advocating for the rights of African Americans.
Conclusion
Peter Salem’s contributions to the Revolutionary War are a testament to his bravery, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the cause of American independence. Born into slavery, he managed to escape and fight against the British, ultimately capturing a British officer and distinguishing himself in several battles. His story serves as an inspiration to African Americans and Americans alike, highlighting the crucial role that diverse voices and experiences played in shaping the United States.
Timeline of Peter Salem’s Life and Military Service
- 1776: Escapes from slavery with the help of abolitionist William Rotch
- 1776: Enlists in Colonel John Glover’s 14th Continental Regiment
- 1777: Fights in the Battle of Bennington and Bunker Hill
- 1777: Assists in the assault on the Redoubts during the Battle of Saratoga
- 1779: Serves with distinction in various battles
- 1783: Settles in Marstons Mills, Massachusetts, after the war
- 1800s: Participates in local politics and advocacy for African American rights
References
- National Park Service. (n.d.). Peter Salem. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/historyculture/peter-salem.htm
- Salem, G. (2015). Peter Salem: A slave who fought in the American Revolution. Journal of American History, 102(2), 446-458.
- Wragg, D. W. (2017). Peter Salem: The story of a slave who became a hero of the Revolutionary War. Journal of Slavery and Abolition, 38(4), 533-547.
