Revolutionary War Roundtable series resumes Wednesday, Nov. 12

Focus on the role of African Americans in the Revolutionary War

November 11, 2025 Pascack Press
Left: “Crispus Attucks,” a 1943 mural by Herschel Levit at the Recorder of Deeds Building in Washington, D.C., honors the sailor of African and Indigenous ancestry who became the first casualty of the Boston Massacre on March 5, 1770. Attucks’ death helped ignite the movement toward American independence. (Library of Congress.) Right: Crispus Attucks portrait, © Archive Photos, Encyclopedia Britannica.
Left: “Crispus Attucks,” a 1943 mural by Herschel Levit at the Recorder of Deeds Building in Washington, D.C., honors the sailor of African and Indigenous ancestry who became the first casualty of the Boston Massacre on March 5, 1770. Attucks’ death helped ignite the movement toward American independence. (Library of Congress.) Right: Crispus Attucks portrait, © Archive Photos, Encyclopedia Britannica.

HACKENSACK — County Executive James J. Tedesco III and the Bergen County Board of Commissioners announce that the Bergen250 initiative, through the Division of Cultural & Historic Affairs, will continue its fall series of Revolutionary War Roundtable presentations with a compelling new installment.

On Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 7 p.m., renowned Revolutionary War historian John U. Rees presents “Many of Them Have Proved Themselves Brave…”: An Overview of African Americans in the Continental Army.

This presentation will shed light on the largely overlooked role of African Americans—most free, some enslaved—in the regiments of the Continental Army. Rees will explore their acceptance, service, and experiences during and after the War for American Independence, with particular focus on those who served in Continental regiments.

The event will take place at the 4th Floor Learning Center in One Bergen County Plaza, offering attendees an opportunity to deepen their understanding of this vital but often overshadowed chapter of American history.

Rees, known for his vivid storytelling of the experiences of common soldiers during the Revolutionary War, will highlight the bravery, challenges, and enduring legacy of these Black revolutionaries.

“Events like this bring our shared history to life and remind us of the sacrifices made in New Jersey and across the colonies for American independence,” said Tedesco. “We are proud to host this important discussion and invite residents to gain a fuller appreciation for the diverse contributions that helped forge our nation.”

Admission is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, and early arrival is recommended. The presentation will also be filmed for later distribution on C-SPAN.

About Bergen250

Bergen250 is Bergen County’s initiative to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, highlighting the county’s critical role in the nation’s founding and engaging the public through lectures, events, and community programming. For more information, visit bergen250.com.

— Via Derek Sands, Dsands@bergencountynj.gov.