Key Individuals in American Revolution

The king of Great Britain who thought taxing the colonists would be the best way to pay for the French and Indian War. 

• Patrick Henry
• George Washington
• King George III

The commander in chief during the American Revolution. He later became the first president of the United States of America.

• John Adams

• Benjamin Franklin

• George Washington

An inventor, publisher, scientist, and political leader. He was on the committee to write the Declaration of Independence. 

• George Washington
• Benjamin Franklin
• James Madison

The main author of the Declaration of Independence. He was a lawyer, inventor, and skilled writer. He was the 3rd president of the United States.

• Thomas Jefferson

• Benedict Arnold

• George Washington

A patriot commander in the Continental Army who turned against Americans and joined the British Army. One of the most famous 'traitors' in American history.

• Thomas Jefferson

• Benedict Arnold

• James Madison

He spoke out strongly against the stamp act and the intolerable act. He encouraged colonists to fight for independence against Great Britain. He helped inspire the American Revolution with the words "give me liberty or give me death".

• John Adams

• Benedict Arnold

• Patrick Henry

He convinced other delegates to sign the Declaration of Independence. He was the 2nd president of the U.S. 

• John Adams
• Patrick Henry 
• Benedict Arnold

A silversmith, engraver, and patriot who participated in the Boston Tea Party. He and William Dawes went on a “midnight ride” to alert the colonial militia of the approach of British forces before the battles of Lexington and Concord. His ride became famous as did his engraving of the Boston Massacre.

• Paul Revere

• George Washington

• John Adams

These people were slaves who were invited to enlist, and if they did, they would become free.

• The Sons of Liberty

• The Daughters of Liberty

• The Black Regiments