CHAPTER 8: The American Revolution "Spies"

Introduction
In this chapter, students learned that the rebel colonists did not stand a chance against the mighty British Army, which had twice as many soldiers and decades of fighting experience. In this activity, students will take a closer look at one way each side tried to gain an advantage over the other—through spying.

Lesson Description
Students will visit the Spy Letters of the American Revolution Web site to learn more about spy networks and methods in place on both sides during the Revolutionary War. Students will answer four questions about the material on the site.

Instructional Objectives
1. Students will be able to name and describe several famous spies of the Revolutionary War.
2. Students will be able to explain several methods used to transmit secret messages.

Student Web Activity Answers
1. Arnold believed that American resolve and morale were low. He thought they were tired of the war and would soon give up. He also hoped to be richly rewarded for his spy services.
2. Women were often able to overhear secret information because it was believed-at the time—that they were not intelligent enough to understand complex military strategies.
3. Invisible ink was made of a mixture of ferrous sulfate and water. The invisible writing could be read by treating the letter with heat or by treating it with a chemical reagent.
4. A mask letter was one that had to be read by placing a mask over the letter in order to cover up non-relevant material and read the secret message.

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