Ep 34. Deborah Samson: Soldier Of The Revolution

Liberty's Kids was a popular animated show that aired on PBS Kids from 2002 to 2004. The series follows two young reporters, James and Sarah, as they report on the events leading up to the American Revolution. In each episode, they meet historical figures such as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Paul Revere, and document their contributions to the fight for freedom.

In season 1, episode 34, entitled "Deborah Samson: Soldier Of The Revolution," James and Sarah learn about an extraordinary woman who disguised herself as a man to fight for her country. They travel to Massachusetts to meet Deborah Samson, who recounts her incredible story of courage and determination.

Deborah was born in 1760 in Plympton, Massachusetts. She grew up in a family of farmers and was expected to marry and have children, but Deborah had other plans. She longed for adventure and wanted to make a difference in the world. When the Revolutionary War broke out, Deborah saw an opportunity to serve her country and disguised herself as a man. She enlisted in the Continental Army under the name Robert Shurtliff and served for three years.

Deborah's fellow soldiers had no idea that she was a woman. She was a skilled fighter and participated in several battles, including the Battle of Yorktown. She refused to back down, even when she was wounded in battle and had to undergo surgery without any anesthesia. After the war ended, Deborah received an honorable discharge from the army.

James and Sarah are amazed by Deborah's bravery and resilience. They interview her and learn more about her experiences as a soldier. They also meet some of her family members and get a sense of how her actions affected those around her. Through Deborah's story, they gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices that were made during the American Revolution.

As always, Liberty's Kids does an excellent job of bringing history to life for young audiences. The show uses engaging animation and entertaining storytelling techniques to make the past more accessible and relatable. In "Deborah Samson: Soldier Of The Revolution," viewers learn about an often-overlooked figure in American history, and are inspired by her determination and courage. The episode also touches upon important themes such as gender roles and societal expectations. Overall, it's an excellent addition to the series and a valuable resource for anyone looking to teach young people about the founding of our country.