Texas and the American Revolution

In discussions on the American Revolutionary War, the contributions of Texas are seldom brought up.[1] But in the 1770s, Texas, inhabited by Spaniards and Native Americans, was a hub of activity. While the signing of the Declaration of Independence occurred on July 4, 1776 in Philadelphia, Tejanos (Texans) manned outposts, guarded New Spain’s claims, and reconnoitered neighboring …

Historical Tidbits

When reenacting or acting as a historical interpreter, its good to have a few historical dates and stories to share. This series will publish a few. December 26, 1776 – 2400 Continental Soldiers, having crossed the Delaware the night before, marched to Trenton and engaged 1400 Hessian soldiers under the command of Col Johann Rhall.  …

Historical Tidbits

When reenacting or acting as a historical interpreter, its good to have a few historical dates and stories to share. This series will publish a few. December 26, 1776          1st Battle of Trenton Having successfully crossed the Delaware on Christmas day, the Continental Army attacked a Hessian garrison at Trenton on December 26, 1776.  Although …

Antifederalist No. 85 — Concluding Remarks: Evils under Confederation Exaggerated; Constitution must Be Drastically Revised Before Adoption

By Melancthon Smith (a “Plebeian”). . . . . It is agreed, the plan is defective — that some of the powers granted are dangerous — others not well defined — and amendments are necessary why then not amend it? Why not remove the cause of danger, and, possible, even the apprehension of it? The …

SinterKlaas

During the American War of Independence, the inhabitants of New York City, formerly New Amsterdam), celebrated the tradition of Sinterklaas as symbol of the city’s non-English past.  In the 1770s the New York Gazetteer noted that the feast day of “St. a Claus” was celebrated “by the descendants of the ancient Dutch families, with their usual festivities.” Sinterklaas is …

Antifederalist No. 84 — On the Lack of a Bill of Rights

By “Brutus.” When a building is to be erected which is intended to stand for ages, the foundation should be firmly laid. The Constitution proposed to your acceptance is designed, not for yourselves alone, but for generations yet unborn. The principles, therefore, upon which the social compact is founded, ought to have been clearly and …

FEDERALIST No. 84: Certain General and Miscellaneous Objections to the Constitution Considered and Answered.

We are on the eve of a very important election.  Much has been said about the Constitution and what is Constitutional so let’s take a few weeks and look at the foundational letters written by Madison, Hamilton, and Jay arguing for the creation of the US Constitution.  The comment tab is open.  Please share your …