"
Women’s Roles in the American Revolution
When the Revolutionary War began, most people expected men to fight and women to remain at home. In reality, women took on many important roles that kept the fight for independence going. They worked on the home front, followed the army, served as nurses and spies, and even fought in battles. Their efforts showed courage, creativity, and dedication to the Patriot cause.Keeping Homes and Communities RunningWith men gone to war, women often became “deputy husbands.” They managed farms, ran businesses, handled finances, and kept families fed. Some produced food, sewed clothing, and made blankets for soldiers. Groups like the Ladies Association of Philadelphia raised money to buy supplies for the Continental Army. By maintaining the economy and producing goods, women gave critical support from home.
Camp Followers
Many women chose to follow the army. Called camp followers, they were usually wives or relatives of soldiers. They cooked, cleaned, sewed, repaired clothing, carried supplies, and cared for the sick. Some became sutlers, selling goods like food and soap to soldiers. Camp followers endured the same long marches and harsh conditions as the army, often with children in tow. Their work kept soldiers healthy and camps running smoothly.
Nursing and Medical Care
Women also served as nurses, often with little formal training. They fed and bathed patients, changed bandages, and cleaned hospital areas. Working near the front lines meant facing dangers like disease and enemy attack. Nurses helped save lives and improved conditions in military hospitals.
Spies and Messengers
Because women could move between areas without attracting as much suspicion, they often served as spies. They carried messages, gathered intelligence about troop movements, and smuggled supplies. Lydia Darragh, for example, warned American forces of a planned British attack after overhearing officers in her home.
On the Battlefield
Some women found themselves in the middle of battles. Mary Ludwig Hays is often connected to the “Molly Pitcher” legend, a story about a woman who carried water to soldiers and then took over a cannon during a fight. Historians are not sure if Molly Pitcher was one real person or if the legend is based on the actions of several different women. However, they do agree that Hays helped her husband’s artillery crew at the Battle of Monmouth, and when he was hurt, she stepped in to take his place. Margaret Corbin did something similar at Fort Washington and became the first woman in the United States to receive a military pension. A few women, like Deborah Sampson, even dressed as men so they could join the army and fight as soldiers.
Diverse Contributions
Enslaved and free African American women, as well as Native American women, also played important roles. Some served in army camps, worked for freedom, or aided in diplomacy and battle. Figures like Phillis Wheatley used writing to inspire patriotism and call for liberty.
Women’s efforts during the Revolution were vital to the cause. They proved they could take on new responsibilities in times of crisis, laying the groundwork for future discussions about women’s roles in American society.
"