James Forten and the Experiences of Black Patriots During the American Revolution

Explore the life and legacy of James Forten to better understand why he (and other Black Americans) chose to support the Patriot cause during the American Revolution. Through viewing media clips, discussing compelling questions, and closely reading a primary source, “Letter from James Forten to William Lloyd Garrison (February 23, 1831),” students understand Forten’s motivations for joining the Revolution and his larger arguments about what that service should have afforded him.

About the Author:
Niles Mattier is a faculty member at Bridgewater State University, teaching pre-service teachers in the College of Education and Health Sciences. Previously, he taught graduate students at Bank Street College of Education and worked as an English as a new language, special education, and history teacher in Boston and NYC. He holds a bachelor’s in history and education studies from Syracuse University and a master’s in social studies curriculum and teaching from Boston University, and is a doctoral candidate in education at Northeastern University.