New York During the American Revolution

The New York State Library is highlighting primary source documents from the collections during the time of the American Revolution within New York State. The premise of this exhibit is based upon the New York State Library Educator Guide for the American Revolution, 2022.

The Educator Guide incorporates document-based questions, ideas and activities for teachers to utilize for lesson planning.  Most activities include interdisciplinary approaches, and modifications can be made according to lesson planning goals and objectives. Based upon the New York State K-12 Social Studies Framework, the American Revolution is taught in Grades 4, 7, and 11. 

Why primary sources?  Primary sources make lessons and presentations come alive for students or participants.  Documents shared provide inquiry and context clues to increase awareness and tell a story.  Historical context with narrative of primary source documents prepares students to make connections for deeper understanding of the time period.