Paul Revere: Separating Myth from History
When we think of the American Revolution, one name that often comes to mind is Paul Revere. Immortalized in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s poem, Revere’s Midnight Ride is celebrated as a defining moment in American history. But how much of what we “know” about Revere is fact, and how much is myth? Let’s explore the true story of Paul Revere, his actions, and the broader context of the British advance he sought to warn against.
The Role of an Express Rider
In 1774 and 1775, Paul Revere served as an express rider for the Boston Committee of Correspondence and the Massachusetts Committee of Safety. In this role, he carried critical messages, news, and documents to cities as far away as New York and Philadelphia. These express riders were vital in keeping the colonies informed and connected, especially as tensions with British authorities escalated.
On the night of April 18, 1775, Revere’s skills and bravery were put to the ultimate test. He was tasked with a critical mission: to warn the patriots that British troops were advancing.
The Signal: Two Lanterns in the Night
Before setting out on his ride, Revere made arrangements to ensure the warning would still reach its target if he were unable to leave Boston. He asked an unidentified friend to hang lanterns in the tower of Christ Church (now known as the Old North Church). The signal was simple yet ingenious:
- One lantern meant the British troops were advancing “by land,” marching out of Boston Neck.
- Two lanterns meant they were coming “by sea,” crossing the Charles River to Cambridge.
That night, two lanterns were hung, signaling that the British troops planned to cross the Charles River. This ingenious signal system allowed the warning to spread quickly, even beyond Revere’s physical reach.
“The British Are Coming”?
One of the most famous phrases associated with Paul Revere is his supposed cry, “The British are coming!” However, this would have made little sense at the time. In 1775, the colonists still considered themselves British subjects. Instead, Revere is reported to have warned of “the regulars”—a term used to describe British soldiers.
When Revere reached the house where John Hancock and Samuel Adams were staying in Lexington, he encountered Sergeant Monroe, who was guarding the premises. Monroe asked Revere to keep his voice down, to which Revere reportedly replied, “Noise! You’ll have noise enough before long. The regulars are coming out!”
Paul Revere Wasn’t Alone
Although Revere is often credited as the lone hero of that night, he was not the only rider spreading the alarm. William Dawes and Samuel Prescott also rode out to warn the countryside. Each rider took a different route, ensuring that the message reached as many people as possible.
Another figure who deserves recognition is Sybil Ludington, a young woman whose ride has often been overlooked in favor of Revere’s story. Ludington, just 16 years old at the time, rode twice the distance of Revere to rally local militia in New York. Her contributions were equally critical in resisting British forces, though her name remains less well-known.
The Ride That Wasn’t Finished
While Paul Revere’s ride is celebrated in history and poetry, the truth is he never completed his journey. After successfully alerting patriots in Lexington, Revere was captured by a British patrol on his way to Concord. Fortunately, the warning had already spread, thanks to his earlier efforts and those of his fellow riders.
Revere was eventually released but without his horse, forcing him to return to Lexington on foot. His ride was part of a much larger effort involving many unsung heroes who helped mobilize the colonial militia.
Simplifying History
History often simplifies events to highlight a single hero or act, and Paul Revere’s ride is no exception. While his contribution was undoubtedly significant, it was part of a broader network of coordinated efforts by the patriot movement.
The myth of Revere’s lone midnight ride saying, “The British are coming!” has persisted largely due to Longfellow’s 1861 poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride.” Written decades after the event, the poem romanticized Revere’s actions and solidified his place in American folklore.
The Legacy of Paul Revere
Despite the embellishments, Paul Revere’s role in the Revolution remains an inspiring story of courage and determination. His actions on the night of April 18, 1775, demonstrated the importance of communication, strategy, and collaboration in the fight for American independence.
As you walk the streets of Boston or visit the Old North Church, remember that Revere was just one of many patriots who contributed to the success of the Revolution. His story, though often exaggerated, serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and efforts that laid the foundation for the United States.
The story of Paul Revere and his midnight ride is a blend of fact and myth, shaped by historical accounts and popular imagination. While he didn’t shout, “The British are coming!” or complete his journey, Revere’s actions were a critical part of the patriots’ early resistance against British forces. By looking beyond the myth, we can appreciate the collective efforts of all who fought for liberty, ensuring that the true complexity of history is remembered.
Find additional education resources on our Book, Podcast, & Website Page