Can one individual make a difference? Can one person’s actions change history? You likely know a lot about famous people such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, but what about the lesser-known heroes of the Revolutionary War? By learning about the Revolutionary War, you can discover how many ordinary people changed the course of history through their efforts, sacrifices, and determination.

Question

For this portfolio project, you will differentiate between valid primary and secondary sources to locate and research a little-known hero from the Revolutionary War era and provide a summary about his or her life and contribution to the war. Your portfolio assessment can be an essay, a slide show presentation, a video, or some other method (be sure to get permission from your teacher before you start).
A primary source is first-hand, original materials like diaries, documents, or photographs from the time of the event. An autobiography is an example of primary source. A secondary source is the secondhand retelling about an event such as books, magazines, or newspapers. A biography is an example of a secondary source.
Your final product will include the following information about the person you choose to research:
• brief summary of the person’s life
• contributions to the Revolutionary War, including events leading to the outbreak of the war or contributions made during the war
• why you think this person is a hero
Your subject should not be someone obvious or famous such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Marquis de Lafayette, or Benedict Arnold, for example. Try to find someone who was just an average citizen or low-ranking soldier who stepped up in a time of need.
Your portfolio assignment has three steps:
1. Research your chosen person.
2. Organize your research.
3. Develop your essay. 

Answer 1

Portfolio Project: The Unsung Hero of the Revolutionary War - Margaret Corbin

1. Research

Brief Summary of Margaret Corbin’s Life: Margaret Corbin was born on November 12, 1751, in Pennsylvania. She came from a modest background, and her early life was marked by the struggles of a frontier woman. As tensions grew between the American colonies and British rule, Margaret’s husband, John Corbin, joined the Continental Army. In 1776, when he enlisted in the defense of Fort Washington in New York, Margaret did not hesitate to join him and support the war effort. She became an integral part of the Revolutionary force, often helping to maintain the fort and tending to the wounded.

Contributions to the Revolutionary War: Margaret Corbin’s most notable contribution came during the Battle of Fort Washington on November 16, 1776. When British troops attacked the fort, John Corbin was killed in action. In a courageous display of bravery, Margaret took over her husband's position at the cannon, firing it at the British troops to defend her home and fellow soldiers. Her actions under fire were extraordinary for a woman of her time, showing undeniable courage and commitment to the American cause. After the fall of Fort Washington, Margaret was captured but later released.

Margaret Corbin’s resolve did not end on the battlefield. In recognition of her extraordinary service, the Continental Congress granted her a pension in 1779, making her one of the first women to receive a military pension in the United States. Her contributions were largely unrecognized in history, overshadowed by her male counterparts, but she exemplified the spirit and determination of countless women who played crucial roles in the fight for independence.

Why Margaret Corbin is a Hero: Margaret Corbin is considered a hero not only for her bravery in battle but also for her symbolization of resilience and fortitude during the Revolutionary War. In a time when women's roles were largely confined to the domestic sphere, she defied gender norms and actively participated in the fight for freedom. Her willingness to take action when faced with adversity and loss makes her an extraordinary figure in American history.

Her story speaks to the countless unnamed individuals whose contributions were vital to the Revolutionary War effort. By standing up in the face of danger and serving alongside men in combat, Margaret Corbin challenges the historical narrative that often excludes women from the battlefield.

2. Organize Your Research

1. Life Overview:

   • Birth: November 12, 1751, Pennsylvania
   • Early life and marriage to John Corbin
   • Joined the Continental Army with her husband

2. Contributions:

   • Battle of Fort Washington (November 16, 1776)
     • Took over cannon firing after her husband’s death
     • Captured but later released
   • First woman to receive a military pension
   • Example of women's roles in the Revolutionary War

3. Heroic Qualities:

   • Bravery and courage in battle
   • Breaking gender roles and norms
   • Symbol of resilience and determination

3. Develop Your Essay

Title: The Courageous Legacy of Margaret Corbin: An Unsung Hero of the Revolutionary War

In the annals of American history, many names associated with the Revolutionary War are lauded for their heroism and leadership, yet the contributions of countless individuals remain in the shadow of these prominent figures. Among them stands Margaret Corbin, a remarkable woman whose actions on the battlefield during a critical time in American history exemplify courage and resilience.

Margaret Corbin was born in Pennsylvania in 1751 and lived a life typical of the frontier settlers. As tensions mounted between the American colonies and British authority, she witnessed her husband, John Corbin, enlist in the Continental Army to defend their nascent nation. In an extraordinary act of devotion, Margaret joined him, forging a partnership that would soon be tested by the horrors of war—not just at home, but directly in the line of fire.

The turning point of Margaret's life arrived at the Battle of Fort Washington in November 1776. When British forces laid siege to the fort, tragedy struck as John was killed in combat. Defying societal expectations and risking her life, she took up his weapon and continued his fight, loading and firing cannon shots at the advancing enemy. This act of valor marked her as one of the first women to engage actively in combat, and it showcased the undeniable spirit of those who fought for independence, regardless of gender.

Though Margaret was ultimately forced to surrender, her contributions did not go unrecognized. In 1779, the Continental Congress awarded her a military pension for her service, a groundbreaking acknowledgment that underscored the essential roles women played during the war.

Margaret Corbin’s heroism lies not only in her battlefield courage but in her defiance of the expectations placed upon women of her time. Throughout history, women have often been relegated to the background, yet individuals like Margaret illuminate the critical impact they had in shaping the nation. Her legacy serves as a reminder that heroism comes in many forms, often quiet and unassuming, but nonetheless significant.

In conclusion, Margaret Corbin stands as an enduring symbol of bravery, determination, and the unyielding human spirit. Her contributions remind us that the fight for freedom was not fought solely by famous leaders and generals, but also by ordinary people willing to risk everything for their beliefs. By honoring the stories of lesser-known heroes like Margaret, we enrich our understanding of history and inspire future generations to recognize that anyone—regardless of circumstance—can make a profound difference in the world.

Answer 2

what was your primary source(s) for information

Answer 3

The information provided in the summary about Margaret Corbin is based on a combination of historical accounts and secondary sources rather than specific primary sources. However, to determine primary sources specifically related to Margaret Corbin and the Revolutionary War, you might consider the following types of materials:

1. Letters and Diaries: Personal letters or diaries from Margaret Corbin or her contemporaries could provide first-hand accounts of her life and experiences during the Revolutionary War. Unfortunately, specific diaries or letters from her are not well-documented.

2. Military Records: Official military records that document her involvement at the Battle of Fort Washington, or pension records from the Continental Congress acknowledging her service, would count as primary sources. These can include military enlistment records, discharge papers, and pension applications.

3. Contemporary Newspapers: Articles from newspapers published during and immediately after the Revolutionary War could provide first-hand accounts of her actions in battle and her recognition by the Continental Congress.

4. Official Government Documents: Documents from the Continental Congress or state governments that granted her a pension would serve as primary sources, showcasing her recognition as a veteran.

5. Memoirs or Testimonies: Oral histories or published accounts from veterans of the Revolutionary War who knew Margaret or described her actions could also serve as primary sources, provided they are contemporaneous or close in time to the events described.

Suggested Research Directions:

To find primary sources, you may want to explore historical archives, such as:

• The National Archives: This repository may hold military records and pension files.
• Local Historical Societies: Often have letters or records pertaining to regional figures.
• Repositories of Revolutionary War records: Such as the Massachusetts Historical Society or the Library of Congress.

Using these types of sources can help shed light on Margaret Corbin's life and contributions in her own words or through contemporary accounts.

Answer 4

can you give a website for your primary source(s) and secondary source(s)?

Answer 5

Certainly! Below are suggestions for websites where you can find both primary and secondary sources related to Margaret Corbin and the Revolutionary War:

Primary Sources

1. National Archives (U.S.)

   • Website: National Archives
   • This site contains military records, pension files, and other documents related to the Revolutionary War, which may include references to Margaret Corbin.

2. Library of Congress

   • Website: Library of Congress
   • The Library of Congress has digitized many historical documents, including letters, diaries, and official records that can be searched through their catalog.

3. American Memory (Library of Congress)

   • Website: American Memory
   • This is a collection of primary source materials from the American history period, including the Revolutionary War.

Secondary Sources

1. Google Books

   • Website: Google Books
   • Searching for biographies or history books related to Margaret Corbin can yield useful secondary sources containing interpretations and summaries of her life and contributions.

2. The Massachusetts Historical Society

   • Website: Massachusetts Historical Society
   • This organization provides access to various research materials, publications, and collections related to the Revolutionary period, which may include accounts of individuals like Margaret Corbin.

3. History.com

   • Website: History.com
   • This site has articles on various topics related to the American Revolution, including features on lesser-known figures of the time.

4. American Battlefield Trust

   • Website: American Battlefield Trust
   • This organization offers educational resources about battles and figures of the Revolutionary War, including blog posts and articles that may touch on women's roles in the conflict.

Additional Research Tips

Utilizing academic databases such as JSTOR or Project MUSE through your school's library may also provide access to scholarly articles and books that cover Margaret Corbin and topics related to women in the Revolutionary War.

By exploring these resources, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of Margaret Corbin's life and contributions, backed by both primary and secondary sources.

Answer 6

List basic facts from primary and secondary sources about the person you choose to research.
Summarize his or her life.
Describe their contributions to the Revolutionary War.
Describe how, if at all, the person’s contributions affected the outcome of the war.
Describe why you think this person is a hero.

Answer 7

Margaret Corbin: Basic Facts, Contributions, and Legacy

Basic Facts (Primary and Secondary Sources)

Primary Sources:

1. Military Records: Documents from the Continental Congress that recognize Margaret Corbin’s service and grant her a pension, acknowledging her role as a combatant.
2. Pension Application: Identified as one of the first women to receive a military pension, highlighting her status and contributions.
3. Contemporary Letters: Any letters or accounts from soldiers or officials present at Fort Washington describing the battle events and mentioning Corbin's actions.

Secondary Sources:

1. Biographies: Books and articles detailing Margaret Corbin’s life, like the biographies found on Google Books or the American Battlefield Trust website, which summarize her contributions during the Revolutionary War.
2. Historical Accounts: Summaries and analyses in history websites (e.g., History.com) that provide context about women’s involvement in the war.
3. Documentaries and History Textbooks: These resources often highlight the contributions of women in the Revolutionary War, with mentions of figures like Margaret Corbin.

Summary of Margaret Corbin’s Life:

Margaret Corbin was born on November 12, 1751, in Pennsylvania. Raised in a working-class family, her life changed dramatically when she married John Corbin, who enlisted in the Continental Army as tensions rose between the American colonies and Britain. Ignoring societal norms of her time, Margaret chose to accompany her husband to the battlefield and assist with various tasks at Fort Washington. Following John’s death during the battle on November 16, 1776, Margaret showcased extraordinary bravery by taking over his cannon when he fell, firing it at the British forces until she was wounded herself. After being captured and later released, she continued to live in Pennsylvania, where her military service was eventually recognized and rewarded with a pension in 1779.

Contributions to the Revolutionary War:

Margaret Corbin's most significant contribution was during the Battle of Fort Washington. In a moment of extreme courage, she took over her husband’s position at a cannon after his death, directly participating in the defense of the fort against British troops. Her actions were not just notable for their bravery but also represented the involvement of women in combat, breaking traditional gender roles. Her recognition by the Continental Congress as one of the first women to receive a military pension speaks to the impact of her actions.

Impact on the Outcome of the War:

While Margaret Corbin's individual contributions may not have decisively altered the overall outcome of the Revolutionary War, her actions at Fort Washington provided a powerful example of women's commitment to the American cause. By participating in combat, she represented the courage of many women whose efforts often went unnoticed. Her legacy contributed to the gradual recognition of women in military roles, helping to pave the way for future generations. Ultimately, her bravery served to inspire others and highlighted the collective struggle of individuals—both men and women—fighting for independence.

Why Margaret Corbin is a Hero:

Margaret Corbin exemplifies heroism through her courage, selflessness, and determination. In a time when women were expected to remain in the domestic sphere, she defied conventions and fought shoulder-to-shoulder with men on the battlefield. Her willingness to take over a cannon after her husband was killed demonstrates exceptional bravery under fire, reflecting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. By honoring figures like Margaret Corbin, we broaden our understanding of heroism during the Revolutionary War and recognize the vital contributions of everyday individuals who played significant roles in shaping the nation’s history. Her story serves as a reminder that true heroism often resides in the actions of those who fight for what they believe in, regardless of their gender or status.