Revolutionary War’s Most Famous American Spy?

Here is a history question for you. Who was the most famous American spy of the Revolutionary War?

Here are a few clues. In September of 1776 a young American solider took off his uniform and put on a brown coat and a broad-brimmed Quaker hat. Pretending to be a school teacher looking for work he went among the
British troops in New York. After two weeks he felt he knew enough of the enemies plans to return to General Washington. Sadly he was captured and the papers hidden in his boots were discovered sealing his fate as a spy. Before being executed he said, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” Who was he?

 

Answer:
Nathan Hale
He volunteered to spy on the British in New York to help the Americans find out what they planned to do. Before he could return to the Americans he was captured and hanged as a spy. His cruel executioner tore up his letters to his family and friends saying, “The rebels should never know they had a man who could die with such firmness.” Read more about his story in Heroes and Heroines of the Past: American History.

To learn more about the Nathan Hale from this curriculum by Amy Puetz Fox.