This wonderful exhibit gives us an opportunity to expl ore New Jersey&rsquo\;s role in the American Revolution through the experi ences of everyday people.
\nThe American Revolution created dramatic
disruptions and opportunities for the people of New Jersey. While much is
known about the challenges faced by the leaders of the conflict\, most Am
ericans
are less familiar with the experiences of ordinary people.&nb
sp\;
This exhibit invites you to explore their lives and how their experiences\, views\, and choices were shaped by their unique circumstanc es.
\nNew Jersey&rsquo\;s diversity mirrors its Revolutionary narrat
ive. Like today\, the state was a rich mix of distinct languages\, religio
ns\, and cultures. Loyalties were roughly divided between those supporting
the Revolution\, those opposed\, and the rest who were uncommitted.
Allegiances bred bitter divisions and deep suspicion\, in many ways creati
ng a civil war. By the end of the War\, the state suffered more damage tha
n most and endured more violent clashes than any other.
The traveling
exhibition explores this tumultuous period through the stories of everyda
y people under extraordinary circumstances. They urge us to consider how t
heir stories echo through time\, and
what we can do to fulfill the pr
omises and ideals of the Revolution.
This exhibition is a project
of RevolutionNJ\, a partnership between The New Jersey Historical Commissi
on\, a division of the New Jersey Department of State\, and Crossroads of
the American Revolution Association\, Inc. This exhibition was curated by
Sharp Consulting and designed by SouthSide Design and Building.
For
additional credits see RevNJ.org/revolutionary-lives