Summary

Spain joined the American war effort. Alexander acted as a diplomat, even though he disliked the administrative tasks. Yet, he valued their help over his personal feelings. Alexander asked Congress to form a battalion of enslaved soldiers in return for their emancipation as he believed this was both morally and strategically right. Both Congress and Washington opposed the idea, but Washington finally agreed to start the first black battalion in Rhode Island. These men would serve five years, and were considered some of the best soldiers. Over 6,000 slaves and Indians fought for the colonists, but it was difficult to convince the South of their value to the war effort. When trying to arm these men, South Carolina and Georgia did not approve. To make matters worse, the British promised freedom to any slaves who joined them, causing many to...