I Survived the American Revolution, 1776

This theme heavily pervades the more action-packed scenes of the novel, for the American soldiers are fighting for their freedom against all odds and must face a foe that is better equipped and better trained. Many of the American soldiers are ordinary people who have never had any formal military training. As Paul tells Nate, “We were all just regular fellows-farmers, bakers, shopkeepers, shoemakers, sailors. Some of us didn’t even know how to shoot” (54). During this time frame, however, the British army is the largest and most powerful fighting force in the world. Thus, the Americans are knowingly fighting a superior army in order to gain their freedom from British rule, and their tenacity pays off. As Paul explains to Nate: “[A]t Bunker Hill, we showed them what a bunch of Yankee Doodles can do” (83). Despite the British soldiers’ tendency to mock the Americans, these decisive engagements make it clear that even with fewer resources and less training, the American soldiers can hold their own in battle.

Part of this bravery is a direct result of having strong leaders. Around the campfire, they “cheer the brave leaders who sparked this fight for freedom” (68), honoring figures such as John Adams, Dr.