New York City during the Revolutionary War: Besieged and Occupied by the British (1776-1783)

Overview of British Occupation

• Time Frame: Summer of 1776 to Fall of 1783
• Key Event: New York was taken by the British by the end of 1776.
• Consequences:
  • George Washington and the Continental Army had to retreat.
  • The city became the central base for British operations during the war.

Life in New York City

• Contrasting Lifestyles:
  • British officers enjoyed fine dining and a bustling theater scene.
  • Washington's spies gathered intelligence on British movements.
• Impact on Residents:
  • Influx of soldiers and Loyalists led to hunger and overcrowding.
  • Prisons were filled, necessitating the use of prison ships along the Brooklyn waterfront for captured rebels.

Podcast Introduction

• Episode Type: A combination of previous shows plus new material.
• Content Focus: Stories previously overlooked about life in New York City during British occupation.

Supporting the Podcast

• Production:
  • New episodes every other week.
  • Plans for expansion through various media and events.
• Patreon:
  • Support available starting at $1/month.
  • Five pledge levels with creative names reflecting New York history.

Related Historical Content

• Fraunces Tavern: A significant site from the Revolutionary War, highlighting the importance of taverns in colonial life.
• Bronx Trilogy (Part One): Discusses the dilemma faced by British loyalists in Westchester during the Revolutionary War.
• Gowanus: Early battles for independence occurred in this area.
• The Great Fire of 1776: Explores the events leading up to this disaster and its impact on the war.
• Before Harlem: Features discussions on the struggles of Black communities during the colonial period.
• George Washington's Inauguration in NYC: A recount of Washington's return to New York after the war.