The Prison Ships of the American Revolution

The HMS Jersey was a notorious British prison ship during the American Revolution, infamous for its horrific conditions. Overcrowded British prisons led to the use of old ships, or hulks, as makeshift prisons. The Jersey housed a mix of American privateers, soldiers, and civilians. Life on board was brutal, with inadequate food, rampant disease, and high mortality rates. Despite the British intent to instill fear, the Jersey became a symbol of British cruelty, galvanizing American resistance. Acts of rebellion and eventual liberation highlighted the prisoners' resilience. The ship's legacy remains a dark chapter in history.

What was the primary reason the British used hulks like the HMS Jersey during the American Revolution?

• To house prisoners due to overcrowded prisons

• To act as trading vessels with other nations

• To serve as warships in battles

• To transport goods across the Atlantic

Which city did the British capture that led to the use of hulks for prisoners?

• New York City

• Charleston

• Boston

• Philadelphia

Who were the majority of the prisoners on the HMS Jersey?

• British soldiers

• American privateers

• French diplomats

• Spanish merchants

What was a common issue with the food provided to prisoners on the HMS Jersey?

• It was often moldy or infested

• It was too spicy

• It was served cold

• It was too salty

How did some prisoners on the HMS Jersey attempt to maintain order and morale?

• By forming alliances with the guards

• By writing letters to the British king

• By staging frequent protests

• By organizing a makeshift government

Who was Elizabeth Burgin and what was her role related to the HMS Jersey?

• A woman who helped prisoners escape

• A cook who provided meals

• A nurse who treated sick prisoners

• A British officer who enforced rules

What was the unintended effect of the HMS Jersey on the American Revolution?

• It became a symbol of British cruelty, boosting American resolve

• It discouraged American support for the war

• It caused a mutiny among British soldiers

• It led to a peace treaty between Britain and America