Stuart, Gilbert. "Abigail Smith Adams." Between 1810 and 1815. Oil on canvas. National Gallery of Art, West Ground Floor Gallery 42B, accession number 1954.7.2. Retrieved from National Gallery of Art, Washington, D. C., online collection.
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American Independence: Women's Contributions During the Revolutionary War
American Independence Abigail Adams led ladies groups in supporting men who were away conducting American diplomacy. She supported the family individually while John Adams was away. She urged Adams to remember women when writing the Constitution and framing the new government. She specifically argued for education for women.
Esther De Berdt Reed was responsible for organizing a fundraising effort for the Revolutionary Army that netted more than $300,000 dollars. Reed used the money to buy linen, and proceeded along with her group to sew over 2,200 shirts for the soldiers. Reed also published "The Sentiments of An American Women" calling for women to support the revolution.
Some women, such as Deborah Sampson, fought alongside men in the Revolutionary army. Disguised as a man, Sampson fought for eighteen months during the war.
Molly Ludwig contributed to the war by bringing provisions to soldiers on the field as well as taking over a cannon during the Battle of Monmouth after her husband fell. Her acts earned her, and other women who similarly helped, the nickname "Molly Pitcher".
Women were also known to spy for the patriots, passing on information they learned about from British soldiers. Martha Washington and other officers' wives, such as Catharine Littlefield Greene, spent time in military camps ministering to the soldiers, by sewing, cooking, and nursing the wounded.
Writer Mercy Otis Warren was one of the several women who used her poetry and satire skills to advocate for independence.
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