Washington D.C. (June 20, 2022).  In America’s War for Independence, one major factor that helped defeat the British was disunity. Sentiment in the British Empire was decidedly mixed about the war with many feeling that fighting the colonists was like battling their own brothers and sisters. This was not a problem for the colonists.

While the English soldier swam in a sea of local patriots, hostile to his presence, Continental soldiers enjoyed the support of the people who were united in their disdain for the English and a desire to rule themselves.  This cohesion proved crucial to maintaining morale during the dark days of the war and it was flagging motivation that eventually sank the British invaders.

But, America paid a heavy price.

It is estimated that 6,000 Americans were killed in action, 6,100 wounded, and upwards of 20,000 were taken prisoner. Historians say some 17,000 more died as the result of illness or while confined as prisoners of war.   Although Royal figures are unreliable, it is estimated the English lost some 24,000 dead or missing in the war.

As we celebrate our freedoms this July 4th, it is important to reflect upon the sacrifices of those who gave their all.  In this photo by Elizabeth Fraser taken on a bright spring day, soldiers from the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division “The Old Guard” place U.S. flags at more than 250,000 headstones, and at the bottom of about 7,000 niche rows at Arlington National Cemetery.

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