African American History During the Revolutionary War

The video discusses the role of African Americans during the American Revolution. Despite the Declaration of Independence's failure to recognize their rights, many African Americans fought for both the British and Continental armies. Their involvement influenced the issue of slavery, leading to its abolition in some states by the war's end. The video highlights the complex choices faced by African Americans, the policies of both armies, and the post-war changes, including Phillis Wheatley's celebration of freedom.

What was the stance of the Declaration of Independence regarding the rights of enslaved African Americans?

• It explicitly granted them freedom.

• It compared British rule to enslavement but did not address their rights.

• It promised them land after the war.

• It encouraged them to join the British Army.

What percentage of the colonial population was African American in 1776?

• One in ten

• One in six

• One in four

• One in eight

What was the reaction of African Americans to the words of the Declaration of Independence?

• They were ecstatic and hopeful.

• They were angry.

• They were confused.

• They were indifferent.

How did the British initially try to recruit African American slaves?

• By offering them land in Canada

• By promising them freedom if they joined the British Army

• By offering them money

• By providing them with weapons

Which state was the first to field an all African American unit?

• New York

• Virginia

• Rhode Island

• Massachusetts

How did the Continental Army's policy on African American soldiers change by 1779?

• They required African Americans to serve in separate units.

• They only allowed African Americans to serve as cooks.

• They accepted free African Americans into the army.

• They stopped enlisting African Americans.

What was the British view of runaway slaves during the later stages of the war?

• They were offered citizenship.

• They were seen as potential allies.

• They were ignored.

• They were considered contraband.

Which states abolished slavery by the end of the war?

• Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina

• Georgia, Florida, and Alabama

• Vermont, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire

• New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania

What was the impact of African American service on white Americans' views?

• It reinforced their belief in slavery.

• It changed many minds, leading to the abolition of slavery in some states.

• It had no impact.

• It led to more restrictive laws against African Americans.

What did Phillis Wheatley do to celebrate the end of the war?

• She became a politician.

• She moved to England.

• She organized a parade.

• She wrote a poem titled 'Liberty and Peace'.