Southern Colonies > Province of South Carolina

Province of South Carolina

Background

The Province of South Carolina played a pivotal role during the American Revolutionary War, experiencing significant military engagements, political upheaval, and social changes. Its strategic location and active participation in the war made it a key battleground, particularly in the Southern Campaign. Here is an overview of South Carolina's involvement in the Revolutionary War:

Political Significance:

1. Early Resistance:

   • South Carolina was an early and strong supporter of the Patriot cause. The colony actively opposed British policies such as the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts, leading to widespread protests and boycotts.
   • In 1774, South Carolina sent delegates to the First Continental Congress, where they participated in discussions and decisions that laid the groundwork for American independence.

2. Provincial Congresses:

   • South Carolina established its own governing bodies through the Provincial Congresses, which met from 1775 onwards to coordinate resistance against British rule.
   • In March 1776, South Carolina adopted a temporary constitution, becoming the first colony to establish an independent government. This was followed by the adoption of a more permanent state constitution in 1778.

3. Signers of the Declaration of Independence:

   • South Carolina had four signers of the Declaration of Independence: Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward Jr., Thomas Lynch Jr., and Arthur Middleton. These men played key roles in the colony’s leadership and the broader revolutionary movement.

Military Activities:

1. Early Conflicts and Fortifications:

   • In June 1776, the Battle of Sullivan’s Island was a significant early engagement where Patriot forces successfully defended Charleston from a British naval attack. The victory prevented the British from capturing the important port city early in the war.
   • Fort Sullivan, later renamed Fort Moultrie in honor of its commander, Colonel William Moultrie, became a symbol of American resilience.

2. British Invasion and Occupation:

   • In 1780, the British launched a major campaign to capture the Southern colonies. General Sir Henry Clinton led a successful siege of Charleston, resulting in the city's surrender in May 1780. This was a severe blow to the Patriot cause in the South.
   • The British established control over much of South Carolina, leading to widespread Loyalist activity and significant internal conflict.

3. Partisan Warfare and Key Battles:

   • The capture of Charleston and subsequent British control led to a brutal and prolonged period of guerrilla warfare. Notable Patriot leaders such as Francis Marion (the “Swamp Fox”), Thomas Sumter (the “Gamecock”), and Andrew Pickens conducted effective partisan campaigns against British and Loyalist forces.
   • Battle of Camden (August 16, 1780): A disastrous defeat for the Continental Army, where General Horatio Gates's forces were routed by British troops under General Cornwallis.
   • Battle of Kings Mountain (October 7, 1780): A decisive Patriot victory where backcountry militia defeated Loyalist forces, marking a turning point in the Southern Campaign.
   • Battle of Cowpens (January 17, 1781): Another crucial victory for the Patriots, where General Daniel Morgan's forces decisively defeated British troops led by Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton.

4. Siege of Ninety-Six and Battle of Eutaw Springs:

   • The Siege of Ninety-Six (May 22 – June 18, 1781) was an important but ultimately unsuccessful attempt by General Nathanael Greene to capture the British-held fort at Ninety-Six.
   • The Battle of Eutaw Springs (September 8, 1781) was the last major battle in South Carolina, ending in a tactical stalemate but contributing to the overall weakening of British forces in the South.

Economic and Social Impact:

1. Economic Disruption:

   • The war caused severe economic disruption in South Carolina. The British occupation, combined with the destruction from battles and raids, devastated the plantation economy, particularly the production of rice and indigo.
   • The war also disrupted trade routes and led to shortages of goods and supplies.

2. Social Changes:

   • The war brought about significant social changes in South Carolina. The ideals of liberty and equality began to influence attitudes toward slavery, though substantial changes in this institution would not occur until much later.
   • The conflict fostered a sense of unity and identity among South Carolinians, despite the internal divisions between Patriots and Loyalists.

Key Figures from South Carolina:

• Francis Marion: Known as the “Swamp Fox,” Marion was a master of guerrilla warfare, leading numerous successful raids against British forces and disrupting their operations.
• Thomas Sumter: Nicknamed the “Gamecock,” Sumter was another key leader in the partisan warfare, conducting aggressive campaigns against British and Loyalist forces.
• Andrew Pickens: A prominent militia leader, Pickens played a crucial role in several key battles, including Cowpens and Kings Mountain.

Post-War Period:

1. Economic Recovery:

   • After the war, South Carolina focused on rebuilding its economy. Efforts were made to restore agricultural production and develop new economic opportunities.
   • The state worked on improving infrastructure, such as roads and ports, to facilitate trade and economic growth.

2. Political Development:

   • South Carolina ratified the U.S. Constitution on May 23, 1788, becoming the eighth state to join the Union. The state's leaders continued to play influential roles in the new federal government.
   • The principles of self-governance and republicanism established during the war continued to shape South Carolina's political landscape.

Legacy:

• Military Valor: The bravery and effectiveness of South Carolinian troops in key battles contributed significantly to the overall success of the Continental Army.
• Political Leadership: South Carolina's leaders were instrumental in the drive for independence and the establishment of the United States, influencing the nation's foundational documents and principles.
• Economic Adaptation: South Carolina's ability to adapt its economy during the war and its subsequent recovery demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness.

The Province of South Carolina's role in the American Revolutionary War was marked by significant political, military, and economic contributions. The state's leaders and citizens were deeply involved in the fight for independence, and their efforts helped shape the future of the United States.

Thirteen Colonies

Sources

Primary Sources

Secondary Sources

1911 Encyclopædia Britannica, Volume 25