Sacred Liberty: Patriot Women

Biblical Echoes in the Lives of Patriot Women

Contrary to popular belief, there were several leading women whose lives were framed around biblical principles. Three women in particular advocated liberty for the cause while remaining biblically grounded, Abigail Adams, Mercy Otis Warren, and Marth Washington. 

Abigail Adams, wife of John Adams was a well-known female figure of the revolutionary era. In terms of biblical reference, Mrs. Adams referred to Psalms and Proverbs many times in her letters expressing her view of morality and ethics from the Bible. She was also aware of the fact that prayer was necessary in times of trouble. Abigail taught her children biblical lessons at home and often strung the home with biblical imagery as a reminder to her children. She was a stable, Christian grounding for her husband and family. 

Mercy Otis Warren was a female historian who lived through the Revolution. In her work titled, History of the American Revolution, she used Scripture paraphrase for the title page. She was a devout Calvinist and saw religion as the set of principles that holds society and government together .  

Martha Washington grew up Anglican and instilled religion into daily life at their Mt. Vernon home. Daily readings and Sabbath observances were the norm at their residence in Virginia. Martha was a beacon of light at Valley Forge, healing soldiers and hosting prayer meetings during the harsh winter. 

Though many look to the male figures of the revolution, there are still many women who are overlooked for their influence of Christianity during the time of our country’s founding. They may have not taken center stage during their life, but the echoes of their life live on in history and helped forge the nation we have today.