Cloaked in Courage
Book Summary:
Cloaked in Courage tells the extraordinary true story of Deborah Sampson, a woman who disguised herself as a man to fight in the Revolutionary War. At a time when women were not allowed to serve as soldiers, Deborah took great risks to follow her convictions and defend her country. Her courage and determination challenged gender norms and paved the way for future discussions about equality and women’s roles in society.
Recommended Questions:
This story describes how women were not permitted to be soldiers in the Revolutionary War. What other restrictions do you think women had during this time period? What resources can you use to find out?
What connections can you make between Deborah Sampson’s fight for recognition and modern efforts for gender equality?
Why do you think Deborah decided to take such a great risk to serve her country?
Why do you think Deborah did not go when she enlisted as Timothy Thayer? What fears might she have had? Why do you think she felt more confident as Robert Shurtliff?
What do you think the letter from the doctor to General Paterson said? If you were the doctor, what would you write in the letter?
What does an honorable discharge mean, and why was that important to the story?
What does this book teach us about the Revolutionary War? Where can we learn more?
The book states, “As men in disguise dumped British tea in the harbor, she felt a tug of freedom.” What popular historical event is this referring to?
Why do you think Deborah “chose her own path—a masterless woman”? What does that choice tell us about her character?
What present restrictions are there to who can serve in the United States Armed forces?
Standards:
NCSS Theme 2: Time, Continuity and Change
This book helps students understand how individual actions can influence historical movements and societal progress. Deborah Sampson’s story reflects how people in the past have defied limitations and contributed to shaping ideas about freedom, gender equality, and citizenship that continue to impact our present-day society.
Social Justice Anchor Standard 14: Understanding Impact
Deborah Sampson’s life connects to this standard by showing how one woman’s defiance of restrictive gender roles during the Revolutionary War highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equity. Her bravery invites students to consider how the actions of individuals in history influence today’s pursuit of fairness and inclusion in all aspects of society.
WA History 4: Understands how historical events inform analysis of contemporary issues
Deborah Sampson’s decision to fight for freedom despite social limitations allows students to analyze how gender expectations of the 18th century inform current discussions about gender equality, representation, and the right to serve one’s country.
