The Role of Everyday Americans in Achieving Independence

The article discusses the contributions of various individuals and groups beyond the well-known Founding Fathers in achieving American independence. It highlights the importance of recognizing the mass political movement that preceded the Revolution, which involved thousands of ordinary citizens. The work of Peter Force, who collected and published documents from the Revolutionary era, is emphasized as crucial for preserving the history of this movement. The article details specific events and sentiments from communities across the colonies, illustrating how local committees played a significant role in mobilizing support for independence. It also notes that while these committees did not explicitly call for democracy, their actions contributed to a broader political participation among the populace. The narrative concludes by acknowledging the ongoing influence of the people's voice in American governance.