Understanding the American Revolution Through One Soldier | Finding Your Roots

Learn about the American Revolution through the experiences of one soldier, including his time in the Battle of Saratoga and at Valley Forge. In this clip from Finding Your Roots, actor, singer, and songwriter Darren Criss discovers that his family history reaches back to the Revolutionary Era, where one of his ancestors fought as a patriot during the War for Independence.

This lesson includes a variety of activities, worksheets, and a background reading to help students explore the historical context of the American Revolution. Through primary source exploration, discussion, and reflection, students will examine the experiences of an individual soldier and consider how personal stories can deepen our understanding of the Revolution and the people who fought for independence.