Thirteen Colonies > Middle Colonies > Delaware Colony

Delaware Colony

Background

The Delaware Colony, also known as the Lower Counties on the Delaware, played an important but often underappreciated role during the American Revolutionary War. Despite being one of the smaller colonies in terms of population and size, Delaware's strategic location and political actions contributed significantly to the Patriot cause. Here is an overview of Delaware's involvement in the Revolutionary War:

Political and Social Context:

1. Colonial Background:

   • Delaware was originally settled by the Dutch and Swedes in the early 17th century before coming under English control. By the time of the Revolutionary War, it was a part of the Province of Pennsylvania but operated with a degree of autonomy.
   • The colony was characterized by a mix of Quaker, Anglican, and other Protestant settlers, contributing to a relatively tolerant and diverse society.

2. Move Toward Independence:

   • Delaware was quick to align with the revolutionary cause. In June 1776, the Delaware Assembly declared independence from both Pennsylvania and Britain, establishing itself as the Delaware State.
   • Caesar Rodney, Thomas McKean, and George Read were notable Delaware leaders who played significant roles in the Continental Congress and the movement toward independence.

Key Events and Contributions:

1. Declaration of Independence:

   • Delaware's Caesar Rodney is famous for his dramatic overnight ride to Philadelphia on July 1-2, 1776, to break a deadlock in the Delaware delegation and vote in favor of independence. His vote ensured that Delaware's delegation supported the Declaration of Independence.

2. Military Contributions:

   • Despite its small size, Delaware contributed troops to the Continental Army. The Delaware Regiment, also known as the Delaware Blues, was renowned for its discipline and effectiveness.
   • Delaware troops fought in several key battles, including the Battle of Long Island (1776), the Battle of Trenton (1776), the Battle of Princeton (1777), and the Battle of Monmouth (1778).

3. Battle of Cooch's Bridge:

   • The Battle of Cooch's Bridge, fought on September 3, 1777, near Newark, Delaware, was the only significant military engagement in the colony during the war. American forces, including the Delaware Militia, skirmished with British and Hessian troops in a delaying action.
   • Although a tactical victory for the British, the battle demonstrated the resolve of Delaware's forces and delayed the British advance toward Philadelphia.

British Occupation and Challenges:

1. British Occupation:

   • Parts of Delaware experienced British occupation and raids, particularly around Wilmington and the Delaware River. These incursions disrupted local life and caused economic hardship.
   • The presence of British troops in neighboring Pennsylvania and New Jersey also affected Delaware, as it was a crucial area for the movement of troops and supplies.

2. Loyalist Activity:

   • Delaware, like other colonies, had its share of Loyalists. Internal divisions and skirmishes between Loyalists and Patriots created additional challenges for the colony during the war.

Aftermath and Impact:

1. Post-War Recovery:

   • The war caused economic disruption in Delaware, but the colony quickly began to recover post-war. Agriculture remained a key part of the economy, with crops like wheat and corn.
   • Wilmington, with its strategic location on the Delaware River, grew as a commercial and industrial center in the post-war period.

2. Political Developments:

   • Delaware's leaders continued to play important roles in the new nation. Delaware was the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 7, 1787, earning it the nickname "The First State."
   • Prominent figures such as John Dickinson, known as the "Penman of the Revolution" for his writings, contributed to the framing of the new government.

Legacy:

1. Historical Significance:

   • Delaware's contributions to the Revolutionary War, particularly the actions of its leaders and the bravery of its soldiers, are commemorated through historical sites and educational programs.
   • Caesar Rodney's ride to Philadelphia and the Delaware Regiment's valor in battle are celebrated as key moments in the state's revolutionary history.

2. Cultural Impact:

   • The war fostered a sense of identity and unity among Delaware's residents. The colony's actions during the Revolutionary War helped lay the foundation for its role as a proud and active participant in the early United States.

Conclusion:

The Delaware Colony's involvement in the American Revolutionary War was marked by political leadership, military contributions, and the resilience of its people. Despite its small size, Delaware played a crucial role in the fight for independence, from the decisive vote for the Declaration of Independence to the bravery of its soldiers in key battles. Delaware's legacy as "The First State" reflects its early and enduring commitment to the principles of liberty and self-governance.

Thirteen Colonies

Sources

Primary Sources

Secondary Sources

1911 Encyclopædia Britannica, Volume 7