According to Pelham, how are Revere's actions similar to robbery?

Answer 1

In his essay "Paul Revere's Ride," author David Pelham argues that Paul Revere's actions can be seen as similar to robbery in terms of their intent and effect. Pelham suggests that Revere's goal was not simply to warn the American colonists of the approaching British troops, but rather to actively disrupt their operations. Revere's mission involved silencing the British soldiers' ability to communicate and coordinate their movements by confiscating their horses and arresting key messengers.

Pelham also emphasizes that Revere's actions were covert, secretive, and carried out under the cover of darkness, much like a robbery would be. This element of surprise was essential to the success of Revere's mission, as it allowed him to target specific individuals and prevent the British from alerting their troops. Just as a robber would aim to catch their victims off guard, Revere sought to catch the British forces unprepared and hinder their advancement.

Overall, Pelham draws parallels between Revere's actions and the tactics employed in a robbery, highlighting the intentional disruption, secretive nature, and surprise inherent in both.