Revolutionary War Reenactments Highlight Contributions of Black and Indigenous Patriots
In Lexington, Massachusetts, the anniversary of the Battle of Lexington is being commemorated with a focus on the contributions of Black and Indigenous patriots during the American Revolution. Among those highlighted is Prince Estabrook, an enslaved man who fought alongside his white neighbors on Lexington Green in 1775. Estabrook's story, along with those of other patriots of color, is being brought to light through various programs and exhibits as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary. These efforts aim to provide a more comprehensive narrative of the nation's founding, which traditionally emphasized white leaders like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. The National Park Service estimates that over 5,500 patriots of color served on the colonial side during the Revolution.