Spies of the American Revolution

By: Cass Werder

The “Spymaster” and his “Spy Ring”

George Washington was a successful general for the Continental Army during the American Revolution. But what many people didn’t know, is that he was also a “Spymaster”. He wanted to teach many spies of that time. So, he and Benjamin Tallmadge formed the “Culper Spy Ring”, a group of American spies who worked for the Continental Army, dedicated to protecting America. They were great. But, they needed to worry about something.

The Punishment

If you were caught and found guilty for being a spy, the punishment would be… death by hanging. If you got caught by a British/Patriot, you would be hanged. A hanging is when you stand on a ladder, have a rope, which is tied to a tree, tied to your neck. A British/Patriot official will kick the ladder out from under your feet, and have your neck broken. With luck, you’ll die instantly. Nathan Hale, a patriot spy, met his doom like this.

The TraitorBenedict Arnold used to be a hero for the Patriots. But he was dissatisfied. He started giving secret information to the British. Benedict was offered £20,000 (British money) for the capture of a Patriot fort. While money was scarce (One reason the American Revolution exists), Benedict Arnold never received his full reward.

Were Spies Paid?Besides Benedict Arnold, the one who got a reward for betrayal, no spies were paid. Money was scarce, so both sides thought, “Maybe if we win the war, we’ll get the money we deserve!” War wasn’t very good for store keepers.

Nope!

Why?Why did spies spy if they weren’t getting paid to risk their lives? They either:

a) Successfully persuaded their slave owner.

b) Their slave owner wanted them to.

c) They were drafted. Or

d) They wanted to defend their country.

If these reasons didn’t matter (mainly d) then Nathan Hale wouldn’t have said, “My only regret is that I have but one life to give to my country”. Or, Patrick Henry wouldn’t have screamed, “Give me Liberty, or give meDeath!”

ConclusionI’ve discussed some fun facts, a couple of questions, and a lot of awesome. You've been a good reader/readers!

Thanks for listening/watching/reading!