Yes, Ona Judge is often considered a lesser-known figure from the Revolutionary War era, though she played a significant role in the context of her time. Born into slavery in 1773, Ona Judge was an enslaved woman who served as a personal maid to Martha Washington, the wife of George Washington. In 1796, Judge escaped from the Washingtons while they were in Philadelphia, where slavery was not legal.
Her story is notable not only because of her escape but also because it highlights issues of slavery and freedom during the Revolutionary War and the early years of the United States. After her escape, Judge lived in New England, where she fought against capture and remained an outspoken advocate for her freedom. Her decision to flee has been seen as an act of resistance against slavery, making her an important figure in the history of the fight for freedom and women's rights. Despite her significant impact, she remains a relatively obscure figure compared to other Revolutionary War heroes.
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