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| Field name | Value |
|---|---|
| Collection Reference Number | GLC03187 |
| From Archive Folder | Documents Relating to 1777 |
| Title | Henry Laurens to William Whipple regarding the American defeat at Rhode Island |
| Date | 15 December 1777 |
| Author | Laurens, Henry (1724-1792) |
| Recipient | Whipple, William |
| Document Type | Correspondence; Military document |
| Content Description | Written by Laurens as President of Continental Congress to Brigadier General Whipple. Whipple was a Declaration of Independence signer. Says Congress is undertaking a full inquiry into the American defeat at Rhode Island under Major General Joseph Spencer. Says that Congress has appointed five commissioners, and that Whipple has been selected as one because of his "continued Zeal in the public service." For more information says to look at the enclosed certified copy of the Act of Congress from 12 December 1777 (the act is not included here). Written from York, Pennsylvania while the British occupied Philadelphia. Free frank carries Laurens's signature. Docketed by Whipple. |
| Subjects | Congress Continental Congress Government and Civics Battle Revolutionary War Military History Global History and Civics |
| People | Laurens, Henry (1724-1792) Whipple, William (1730-1785) |
| Place written | York, Pennsylvania |
| Theme | Government & Politics; The American Revolution; Foreign Affairs |
| Sub-collection | The Gilder Lehrman Collection, 1493-1859 |
| Additional Information | Spencer's amphibious attack on Rhode Island from Tiverton in September 1777 was a failure. The operation was canceled after troops were loaded into boats when Spencer learned the plan was compromised. Spencer was indignant about the Congressional inquiry and requested a military court of inquiry and was exonerated. Spencer resigned his commission on 13 January 1778. |
| Copyright | The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History |
| Module | Settlement, Commerce, Revolution and Reform: 1493-1859 |