The Gaspee Affair of 1772

[@MrJoestudent]

Great piece thanks! Just a minor correction, the Gaspee was led aground at what is now Gaspee Point, which is 15+ miles North of Goat Island/Newport... again, a great piece, we are very proud of this act here in RI, and you have added copious details (most of which I didnt know) that really deepens the knowledge of this little known but significant piece of history!

[@Josh.Pascale]

From a Rhode Islander I thank you sincerely for this one . Being the smallest state in the union RI mostly gets overlooked, but has a rich history. So again thank you, and I love your content keep it up !

[@stephenodell9688]

Yes Remembering this shows that the problems were long standing and did effect other places then just Boston.

[@guytansbariva2295]

You're right, as a Midwesterner, Rhode Island is a state (like Oregon, Maine, Alabama, etc) that we never hear anything about. I only heard it mentioned recently for the first time in 15 years since high school because of Jay Leno touring the mansions in Newport in classic cars in one of his KZbin shows.

[@marysalisbury9270]

Blink and you'll miss it I love my Rhode Island roots! Westerly. Portsmouth. Newport. Pawtucket. Richmond. Woonsocket. I could go on ..

[@geoben1810]

It never fails. Once again H.G sheds light on the obscure or little known history that most certainly deserves to be remembered. I had never heard of this event till now. 👍🏻✌🏻

[@battlements7649]

What a great man for it, too. Same with myself here- wasn't familiar. Outstanding, top-of-the-line quality content.

[@82ndSarge]

Thank you for introducing the concept of "Historiography"...it is so rarely discussed. As a history teacher, it is one of the first concepts I required my students to examine/study before we dove into the "hard content". If you haven't already, you should dedicate an episode or two on Historiography.

[@petermoniz6302]

Rhode Islander here! We are a wild bunch and proud of our history! =)

[@williamsample2631]

And you shouldn't be changing your State's name. I don't mean you personally just a knee-jerk reactionaries. Small But Mighty!

[@dickfitswell3437]

And yall like your rum

[@steveclark4291]

@@williamsample2631 I never heard that Rhode Island was or is supposedly changing their state name ! What was they thinking about changing it to ?

[@noreaster08]

@@williamsample2631 And they still celebrate VJ (Victory over Japan) Day. Which so called progressives have been trying to ban since the 60's.

[@williamsample2631]

@@steveclark4291 Rhode Island's official name his Rhode Island and Providence Plantation. They wanted to change just to Rhode Island. Liberal knee jerks. It may be a small state. But hey it has a hell of a history! Seriously they say if it hadn't been for whiskey the Irish could have taken over the world. Personally if it hadn't been for rum I think the Rhode Islanders would have taken over the United States!

[@BankgeekOutdoors]

This is why this channel is so fascinating. This is history that is forgotten and ignored (outside of RI). Thank you for the time you put into this channel. It is one of my favorites.

[@chriseidam7319]

As a Rhode Islander, thanks for the video. We Rhode Islanders get short shift on most of our contributions that shaped The United States (most of the Bill of Rights, absolute religious freedom, separation of church and state, birthplace of the abolition movement, birthplace of the American industrial revolution, invention of motion pictures, invention of the diner, the brilliant contributions of Gen. Nathaneal Green to the Revolution, etc., etc., etc.), the war against the King's navy preceding Lexington and Concord figuring prominently amongst them. So it is refreshing to get a nod from The History Guy. As good as your videos are, I caught a fact error - the Gaspee Affair occured on sandbar adjacent to the shoreline of Warwick and Cranston, nowhere near Goat Island, which is situated several hundred yards from the Newport shoreline, at least 25 miles from what is now called Gaspee Point. Fun facts: The loathsome and corrupt Lt. Dudingston was shot in the, "groin". Ouch! I had never heard he was shot in the face. And he was more than just enforcing taxation. He was stealing cargo and stealing packet ship revenues (gold) from the merchants. He was a thief - a royally-sanctioned pirate - who was baited into chasing the Hannah by Rhode Islanders, as planned by John Brown and Abraham Whipple (founder of the U.S. Navy) - and Dudingston got what he deserved. Side note, the largest trial and mass execution of convicted pirates in American history was held in Newport, with the 26 executions conducted on Goat Island, a small island saturated in rich history. Keep up your excellent work.

[@christophersullivan3807]

Yes, I grew up in Gaspee Point section of Warwick and have fished that ever changing sandbar countless times for stripers and blues.

[@giladpellaeon1691]

As another Rhode Islander (16th generation) I can say I caught those errors too. I was even taught at URI that Dudingston was shot in the "upper inner thigh" and never walked the same after. The sandbar was located off Warwick (Shawomet at the time). Another Fun fact is that Rhode Island was the only colony of the original 13 that did not have a Royalist faction. Probably because we were too busy smuggling and squabbling amongst ourselves. Btw keep up the good work History Guy!

[@observationsfromthebunker9639]

H.P. Lovecraft, another Rhode Islander of note, cheerfully used the Gaspee-burning posse as the people who burned out his wicked wizard Joseph Curwen in "The Case of Charles Dexter Ward." Apparently their vigilante action against an ominous neighbor formed the brotherhood that later struck at Gaspee...

[@grizzlygrizzle]

I noticed the geography error, too, having grown up in RI and having lived there for about a decade as an adult. It's sad to see the political degeneration of the state that has occurred since then. It has become one of the bluest states in the country, and its politicians are outrageous enemies of freedom.

[@warrenkaye8679]

Namquid Point (now Gaspee Point) is where the Gaspee ran aground and Dudingston was shot in the leg not the face and was taken ashore to get medical attention.

[@mikenixon2401]

During my ancestral research, I learned I had a several times great grandfather who was an emissary (of some degree) in North Carolina for the King of Great Britain. His local friends at some point convinced him that independence from the Crown was a good idea. So, as the story goes, my ancestor used his influence to order weapons and ammunition to "control" these rebellious colonists. In reality he was handing over supplies to the colonists. Occasionally, he ordered more "out of desperation" for his gun running operation. I have no idea how long this may have lasted. Somehow he was never caught or prosecuted by British authorities. I just thought you may enjoy that small piece of our fantastic American history.

[@mathewkelly9968]

So your ancestor was a traitor ..... Congratulations

[@MyrnaMinkoff-yy4qd]

During my ancestral research I came across Christopher Nation The Regulator. Christopher Nation was one of the main agitators of the North Carolina Regulators Rebellion 1765-1771. He famously shot a hole in the Governor's mansion and robbed weapons convoys. The British Governor called him "a vile wretch." I bet my ancestor knew yours pretty well. I had never heard of the Regulators before I did my ancestor hunting.

[@mikenixon2401]

@@mathewkelly9968 you evidently missed the point I was offering. Based solely upon the History Guy enjoying hidden tidbits of multiple events I shared that story, simply as a matter of interest regarding the complexities of life in general. I realize it can be interpreted multiple ways, and would even say among my family lines there are those who would say he stood by personal conviction and took advantage of his opportunities for a just cause. Others might agree with you and your unfortunately ugly and personally insulting tone with use of the word "traitor." Congratulations from you are definitely not necessary. I doubt there is any family on earth that has a relative or distant ancestor in whom for one reason or another they can project or justify shame. Based on the first impression you offered with your remark in this public forum, I would not be surprised if some of your relatives consider their target of embarrassment as being you. You need not reply and make yourself appear even more repugnant. I refuse to argue over such things and ruin the enjoyment and information offered by the working owner of this channel.

[@athopi]

@@mathewkelly9968 Go haunt some other channel. You have nothing constructive to add here, putz.

[@battlements7649]

@@mathewkelly9968 well-put into your place, textbook- *Love* it!!

[@tomrankin1826]

Excellent video. Thank you for giving little Rhody some recognition. Two minor corrections, however: 1) Gaspee went aground on Namquid Point in Warwick, RI (now called "Gaspee Point"); and 2) Duddingston was wounded in the thigh, not the face. He was taken ashore in Warwick, where his wounds were treated.

[@okimaniceguy]

thanks for the correction === thus Gaspee Days takes part in Warwick RI near historic Pawtuxet village

[@Kevin-mx1vi]

I'm a Brit but found myself rooting for the Rhode Islanders for standing up for themselves. Well done !

[@whiterabbit-wo7hw]

Thank you Kevin. From Missouri.

[@KillingDeadThings]

With the way our (British) Parliament treated the colonists and how they governed overall, it's no surprise the American revolution came about. I sometimes wonder what would America and indeed the United Kingdom look like today had they had representation and not been governed so unfairly.

[@Nostripe361]

@@KillingDeadThings Its an interesting question. How different would the world have been if the British, rather than attacking the colonists, instead listened to the their grievances and worked out a compromise. I mean its not like sch a thing was impossible. Even after the revolt began, the colonist still sent overtures to the Crown asking to talk things out.

[@jamesbarton1969]

@@Nostripe361 They say that Britain learned their lesson and treated the Canadians differently because of the revolution.

[@jamesbarton1969]

Rhode Islanders were a contentious lot, they were the last state to ratify the Constitution and in the ratification document they warned that they reserved the right to leave the union if they didn't like the way things were being run. The two places you can find the states has Rhode Island and Providence Plantations with 1 with one representative but in the other place, the signing, Rhode Island was missing I believe because RI still hadn't ratified it when the Constitution document was published

[@nickdsylva932]

You teach me something new everytime I watch you THG, things which are felt to be to trivial to be put in either high school or first year world history in college. Thanks again.

[@DaxCagle]

Just came up in my recommendations this morning, I am a seventh and eighth grade social studies teacher and we are currently going over the road to rebellion. This is a fantastic snippet, and I hope to incorporate it into the next week of my lesson plans. Keep up the great work, of remembering history that deserves to be remembered!

[@frankgulla2335]

Excellent episode. I am from Boston and had heard about smuggling but it was always about small harbors around Boston. Clearly Rhode Island should have a prominent place in the American Revelution story. Thank you for "History that Deserves to be Remembered"

[@markpowers5907]

A prior comment mentioned that the Gaspee ran aground at what is now Gaspee Point in Warwick RI. Duddington was lured into the upper reaches of Narragansett Bay about 10 statute miles north of Goat Island. Great piece !

[@benb5960]

Your summation of how history is interpreted often by motivations of what is going on at a particular moment in the present is very on point.

[@bugalaman]

"Knowing they were no match for the squirrel" - a phrase never said or even thought, until now.

[@Game_Hero]

*Laughs in Squirrel Girl*

[@crhu319]

Except by a chipmunk.

[@phredphlintstone6455]

Until 1772

[@timcollins9242]

Haven't you watched National Lampoon's 'Christmas Vacation'?

[@stevedietrich8936]

Never heard this story before, but now I want to go to Gaspee days. 2022 marks 250 years, a nice round number.

[@totallyfrozen]

Maybe the democratic-socialists will have dropped the COVID panic propaganda by then.

[@whiterabbit-wo7hw]

@@totallyfrozen 😷😷😷😷😷🤧💀💀😂

[@counterfit5]

totallyfrozen oh yeah, 800,000 people died all around the world because they just hate Trump that much. Get a clue, or at least a brain. Barring that, shut up.

[@christophersullivan3807]

@@counterfit5 ah, another hater of our 1st Amendment. Take your own advice.

[@KingYote42]

As a Rhode Islander, I am happy to see you do an episode on this little known bit of history. It often gets lost in the larger narrative of the Revolutionary war.

[@v.e.7236]

9:48 An interesting parallel to the forfeiture act that allows law renforcement to keep seized property, regardless whether there was a conviction or not. People didn't like it then and certainly have issue with that code of ethics employed by said law enforcement. 300+ years and a Revolutionary War later and the American Gov't. is doing exactly what they opposed from the Britts. "Those who forget history are destined to repeat it" comes to mind.

[@danoneill2846]

Trump LOVEs that theft from the people .

[@altonbunnjr]

My favorite is if you get pulled over and have a large sum of money on your person the cops can confiscate it as suspected “drug money “. That and the requirement that your bank has to report you withdrawing more than $10,000 from your account.

[@Nostripe361]

You're talking about civil forfeiture right? I hate that program. Did you know that there are actually places in the US that now use that as a main source of revenue for the police. Its a disgusting program that will only lead to anti-government sentiment.

[@altonbunnjr]

Nostripe361 Yes that’s it. As much as I disliked Obama, I do give him credit for trying to have it stopped. But we need legislation outlawing it not executive orders that can be overturned.

[@v.e.7236]

@@Nostripe361 That's the real down-side, more disrespect for law enforcement, which we just don't need, especially in the wake of all of these seemingly unwarrranted police shootings. It seems to me both the civil forfeiture and lobbying should be outlawed, as both are creating an atmosphere of predation towards/against the American people.

[@raydunakin]

HMS Squirrel?? If that didn't terrify the Colonies, the Brits could send in her sister ships, HMS Bunny Rabbit and HMS Chipmunk. ;-)

[@firefighterps2]

And don't forget the mighty HMS Kitten.

[@constancemiller3753]

RUN AWAY! RUN AWAY! 🐇

[@firefighterps2]

@@constancemiller3753 killer rabbit. Very good

[@timengineman2nd714]

@@firefighterps2 But the R.I. navy carried the Holy Hand-grenade of Antioch aboard each of their vessels!

[@firefighterps2]

@@timengineman2nd714 this is true.

[@keredrellit3992]

I'm from Rhode Island and I have never heard about this or knew about the rum making in Newport! Thank you so much!

[@dbmail545]

What a shame my father died two decades ago. I get my fascination with history from him and I'm sure he would have enjoyed THG at least as much as I do.

[@tygrkhat4087]

On Halloween, it will be 12 years since my dad died. He passed his love of history to me and he certainly would have enjoyed THG.

[@hbtrustme7196]

The same thing occurred to me while I watched this episode. My father would have loved this stuff.

[@BA-gn3qb]

No wonder John Hancock signed his name so big. He was still pissed about not getting his ship back.

[@illuminaughty8451]

This makes so much sense!

[@jamesbarton1969]

What John Hancock and the other signers did did was treason, if the rebels lost they could have been hung (hence Franklin's line which went something like ' we better hang together or we will surely hang separately'. Hancock said he signed it that way so that King George would not have to put his glasses on to read it. Somehow facts about the founding fathers that seem to have been lost.

[@LordFalconsword]

@@jamesbarton1969 Most of the founders suffered greatly for their valor. They paid with their fortunes, sacred honor, and many with their lives. Now we have punks burning buildings and looting businesses because they've been paid to do it, or just lied to. Time for another split, I think.

[@jamesbarton1969]

@@LordFalconsword If you are talking about the signers of the Declaration of Independence, which is where this thread started not so much the lives but they did make sacrifices, not that some people recognize that. I wonder if even one of them know that Jefferson signed the bill making the importation of slaves in 1808 a capital offense, a bill passes buy congressmen from both the slave and the free states, also that the idea that slavery was wrong started from Western Europe and the United States, definitely not from Africa where Black slaves were sold both East and West until Britain stopped them.

[@AdamBechtol]

@@jamesbarton1969:)

[@robertobrien9899]

Thank you for this episode. It is my understanding that the Gaspee actually went aground in shallow water in Warwick RI, at a spot now named Gaspee Point. Not Goat Island, which is part of Newport RI. There is also a plaque commemorating the spot where Duddington and the crew of the Gaspee were brought ashore. It is in a park in Cranston RI at a place called Stillhouse Cove, that at the time was considered and by some still is considered part of Pawtuxet Village. Duddington was treated there by a prominent local doctor. His wounds appear to have been to his left arm and abdomen. This is noted in his later petition to the Royal Navy for a pension regarding his wounds and limited use of his left arm. It is believed the musket ball ricocheted off his arm and into his abdomen. After a few days of treatment he was removed to Newport, most probably Goat Island and the home of his lawyer. Thanks again H.G. just wanted to give props to my adopted home of Pawtuxet Village and Warwick RI.

[@billdurham8477]

Not abdomen, um the family jewels. Hope someone had some opium......

[@ironiczombie2530]

Thanks history guy, for taking the time to make this episode. This is certainly a subject that deserves to be remembered.

[@davidchsw]

I have often thought this would make good content for you. Thanks from a Rhode Islander.

[@fire304]

I grew up in Rhode Island and was taught several parts of this story in school. Thank you for converting it in such great detail!

[@bobsmoot2392]

Another delicious narrative, by our history professor. Thank you, sir. The cycle of American history is, seemingly, just about back to this point. So close...

[@peterhuston7888]

Every time I see a History Guy video, I think "sounds boring." And every time I bother to watch, it's a compelling and enlightening story. Thank you for constantly exceeding my expectations.

[@josefschmeau4682]

Superb history . It does my. heart good to see all the various sides of an argument explained . These days, that’s a rare quality !👍👍🇺🇸🇨🇦🇬🇧🇹🇩

[@douglassauvageau7262]

I truly appreciate your contention that history is often a matter of interpretation and 'selective-memory'. The most profound responsibility of present-day statesmen is to learn as much as possible about past events, their consequences, and their bearing upon present circumstances as society evolves toward our future.

[@rickcimino743]

My sister lives in that Pawtuxet village. I've been there many times but never for the festival. The geography was (is?) perfect for these events. Thanks HG.

[@RossMcLendon]

A fun little bit of history that played out about a mile from where I live now. The parade is a lot of fun, you should come one of these years!

[@elenamiller3610]

I deeply enjoy your videos, you always bring up the interesting forgotten human stories of history!

[@Weave.seen.this.b4]

Jesus, thanks history guy for having a segment on Warwick, RI. I grew up there and have a family ancestor that fought in the Revolutionary War. Pawtuxet Village is still looking good.

[@danischeel4846]

Did you know, Mr History Guy, that HP Lovecraft referenced the Gaspee affair in the novella "The Case of Charles Dexter Ward? That's how I learned about this event. Never once did I learn of the event in any history class. Funny the nuggets of info you can pick up just by reading!

[@observationsfromthebunker9639]

I agree, this event was passed over completely in my school education. I knew of it from a couple of passing mentions in books, a picture of a burning ship, and, yes, Lovecraft ( a Colonial scholar of some ability) casually citing the incident in his story. It would be quite a while before a read a book where the "Gaspee affair" was detailed in full.

[@trainmaster383]

Just what to tell you, once again how much I truly enjoy your work. What I find most satisfying is your inclusion of the WHY of history, not just manes, dates and events. The lack of any reason WHY something happened lead to my dislike of history in school. You have a great desk side manner in your instruction and surely you would have been one of the most influential teachers of my life. Thank you and keep up the amazing work. If the economy ever improves my finances you will be one of the first websites I will support. God Bless You from a friend you yet to met.

[@ronobrien7187]

I grew up in Pawtuxet Village, which is near Gaspee Point, all in the City of Warwick RI. Gaspee days are still a bigger event than the 4th of July. It's a week long festival and it is a blast.

[@NickManJams]

I'm a Rhode Islander and very recently started studying our history, partly inspired by this channel. This couldn't have come at a better time; it helped fill in some gaps in my understanding of the triangle trade, among other things. Thank you for this awesome video!

[@chriseidam7319]

Also a Rhodey. I recommend you check out the Wikipedia page on the, "islands of Narragansett Bay." I was shocked by how much forgotten, significant history pertains to the bay.

[@johntabler349]

I never heard any of this in school only from the historical novel Rise to Rebellion from Jeff Shaara

[@dbmail545]

He lived just a few miles from my parents and I met him in my youth.

[@dickfitswell3437]

School doesn't teach history. They teach Division and lies nowadays

[@johntabler349]

@@dickfitswell3437 I was in school a long time ago and it wasn't very good then either not as bad as today but not good

[@stehfreejesseah7893]

@@dickfitswell3437 You got a specific example? You did hear THG explain "historiography" right?

[@whiterabbit-wo7hw]

Great author.

[@sideshowbob]

9:30 - "The sloop was confiscated, the charges were dropped, but the sloop was kept" - sounds like asset forfeiture laws nowadays.

[@kcthecowboy]

This is the BEST, most concise explanation of the Gaspee Affair, I have ever heard. Thanks for explaining the events leading up to it. Why do we insist on teaching history as if each event occurred in a vacuum?

[@johngrow3390]

The Gaspee Captain was actually shot in the groin. He was cared for by Rhode Island citiztens which he thanked a letter you can read if you visit our state.

[@TheHistoryGuyChannel]

There is some discussion of the nature of his injuries, which left him lame. I think the current thinking is that the shot that disabled his arm ricocheted into his leg. The often stated belief that he was hit in the testicles seems unlikely, since he later fathered children. It is fair to say that I did not go into detail on the extent of his wounds. He did recover enough that, despite the loss of the use of his left arm and severe lameness in his leg, he was given command of several other naval vessels and eventually achieved the rank of Rear Admiral.

[@jamessilberschlag1705]

Fail upward!

[@christophersullivan3807]

I grew up in Gaspee Point and have been to every Gaspee Days parade since 1967. Gaspee days and the Fourth of July are my favorite holidays.

[@earlyriser8998]

I loved your closing. Winners write History...and then re-write and re-write.... based on the Context of the writer.

[@roderickfraser9788]

Thank you for sharing the Gaspee Affair. As previously mentioned, Gaspee ran aground near Warwick and Cranston, RI. Keep up the good work!

[@ChestZeroeski]

I'd be thankful to find out the artists that were part of this vepisode's collection of montages... another fabulous short.

[@grimreaper6557]

what an intresting fact sadly its not widely taught in history classes it should be we focus on the tea party but leave out what happened leading up to it and the other events leading to our revelution Thank you for this Knowlage and this awesome video

[@johnlameelk5339]

Then as now, it's who you know that gets you in the history books. Many people are unaware that Paul Revere was not the sole rider that fateful night beside the river, watching the bell tower. But he was the one who who knew a poet, and so history remembers some, and banishes others, just as deserving, to the dust bin.

[@bepbep7418]

To be fair no teacher really has the time it takes to go this in depth. They have a wide array of history to touch on before summer. And I bet your one of only a few classmates that was ACTUALLY interested in History. I know I was.

[@grimreaper6557]

@@bepbep7418 yes i was always interested in History both american and world history both in High School and Collage even in Collage i never learned this though i am sure if i had taken a Major in History i would have heard of it

[@stehfreejesseah7893]

@@bepbep7418 I know everyone always says this, kid's get what like 45 min twice a week on history, they can't cover everything and the kids who like history have to take advanced courses to cover this stuff so it becomes elective. I think of my education and they did covered a lot in both history and social studies so I'm not sure what else they could do.

[@bepbep7418]

@@stehfreejesseah7893 I had a 4x4 schedule in highschool, so we had hour and a half classes, but it's still not enough time.

[@micbrooks5912]

Something I’ve never heard of! Love the channel and the quick snippets. TY

[@webbtrekker534]

Now this is something I have heard of for the first time. Thanks History Guy!!!

[@miltmarhoffer729]

Thank you for this post. It was GREAT!!!! many thanks!!!!

[@ralphsanders7905]

I have heard of a story of a cosmonaut that got trapped outside of a Soviet space station. I thought he was alone and had to use ingenuity to save himself and get back in. When I looked for more information I had heard he was very low key about what happened. Don’t know if there is enough out there for an episode but could be a thrilling story. Thanks!

[@messmeister92]

11:38 A quick but important correction: The Gaspee didn’t run aground near Goat Island in Newport, but further up the bay in shallower water near Warwick, near Pawtucket Village where the burning is still celebrated. Today, it’s conveniently called “Gaspee Point.” The Hannah was heading up the bay toward Providence, which is where the colonists who burned the ship had rowed from. The wounded LT. Dudingston was taken ashore at Sandhill Cove, in Edgewood, RI, as the colonists made the trip back up Narragansett Bay.

[@DB.KOOPER]

"...knowing they were no match for the squirrel." What a thing to have to say out loud LOL. Awesome content, love the channel, you've definitely earned my subscription. Cheers mate.

[@camo_chevy5173]

Love the videos, history is awesome!!

[@LiquidLuke]

David Zeisberger and The Gnadenhutten Massacre is history worth being remembered.

[@TheHistoryGuyChannel]

It does.

[@katieandkevinsears7724]

I grew up near Gnadenhutten. That and Shoenbrunn were the frontier history I grew up with.

[@LiquidLuke]

@@TheHistoryGuyChannel Thank you for responding!

[@bockmaker]

www.westholmepublishing.com/book/anatomy-of-a-massacre-sterner/

[@robertdavis7726]

You are incredible. I would love to take a history class from you in person. You're amazing

[@steveclark4291]

Thank you The History Guy for another great article on history of our Country ! Take care , stay safe and healthy wherever your next research takes you ! Doing well here in Kansas !

[@erickstiner1668]

You’re an excellent teacher of history.....Thank you for all your effort on these videos.

[@vincentpellegrino789]

WOW. Of all your great videos this is my new favorite.

[@Perichron]

I've recently discovered this channel, and i cant help but binge watch. The presentation, as well as the format are excellent!

[@Miata822]

Interesting to hear the discussion on shifting interpretations of history. Simple answers are easier to digest but any time and the various people in it are pushed and pulled by a variety of often unknowable motivations. It would be interesting to see how future historians look back on our time... if there are still historians.

[@HeadPack]

I am from Austria, but remember vividly when I first heard about this event. It was at some experimental media lab at Brown. The way it was told there differed a bit from THG's account, as it seemed a pretty much planned affair by the Rhode Islanders, who were said to have readied themselves for the moment when the ship was lured to run aground. Then again, THG refers to historiography, for good reason.

[@Yvonne2214]

I have yet to watch the entire content of The History Guy but I'm getting there. I love the passion with which the stories are told.

[@adampay8906]

As a fellow South Dakotan who has worked with a Rhode Islander, you've gotta say paw-tuck-sett as fast as possible.

[@counterfit5]

Adam Pay and keep in mind that Pawtuxet and Pawtucket are miles apart and should not be confused in location or pronunciation. Paw-tuck-set vs P’tuck-it

[@ericnolastname3454]

I suggested this and THG delivers. Thank you.

[@gegalvezge]

History Guy first of all i love this chanel.You remind me of my history teacher that i used to love hear teach, i dont know if it was his way of public speaking but once he started talking, i was into it. Thank History Guy.

[@edglunz9917]

Another well presented episode from History That Deserves To Be Remembered

[@knightowl3577]

Oddly I knew that my family have distant relatives in Rhode Island, and the favourite tipple my father and indeed his father was Navy Rum, something I buy a bottle of and enjoy every week. I have never heard of this story before, but it has given me a new interest in the history of both Rhode Island and my own families history there.

[@stavinaircaeruleum2275]

Yayyy awesome video to watch while I eat breakfast! Love your work!

[@darthtator1221]

You learn something new every day.

[@steveclark4291]

I try to learn something new everyday and I'm 65 ! I have always felt that if you don't learn something new everyday then you quit living !

[@bdbailey9225]

I consider myself a pretty fair amateur historian, but I had never heard the first word about this whole brouhaha. Which is why I'm a big fan, History Guy! I love your work!

[@bethtetreault5889]

I have had the privilege of meeting the present day Pawtucket Rangers. They were chartered in 1774 and still maintain an active militia. It is very interesting that John Brown, one of the charged Gaspee participants, was an active slave trader and founder of Brown University.

[@tsangarisjohn]

Learning more from you than I ever learned at school. Or perhaps I am simply more interested now that i am in my mid 40s. Maybe both... Keep up the good work. This is great.

[@TheHylianBatman]

I quite like the naval tone the channel's been taking recently, naval history is just fantastic. Thank you for telling us about this, I never would've known about it otherwise.

[@glenberry2218]

Of course our history has a naval tone, we are surrounded by great oceans on either side. These oceans kept us safe for many years allowing us to develop into the great nation we are today.

[@andrewgreen7234]

Hey! A topic I suggested got used! (Though maybe entirely incidentally). Thanks History Guy! I learned a ton, as always. I first learned of the Gaspee Affair in the fantastic book by James R. Beller "America in Crimson Red: The Baptist History of America". Also learned about the battle of Alamance in 1771 which would make a good episode.

[@markengebritson6319]

I found your explanation of how history is viewed over time changes with the current views of the day. This might explain the need to tear down statues today!

[@TheHistoryGuyChannel]

I avoid current politics, but absolutely agree that the controversy represents changing views on history as seen through the prism of the current times.

[@lonestarprepper0156]

You never fail to educate and entertain. Thanks.

[@philipcallicoat9947]

"Who started this rebellion?" People... Sort of runs in the family.💔

[@nuduce123]

I click like before play. I know its going to be a great video. Also Magellan tv is amazing. I bought a years subscription straight away. Didn't get a damn thing done yesterday because I watched 6 hours of documentaries. Thank you for advertising this. I am usually not one to let ads get to me but I love history and documentaries.

[@gregbellinger5765]

Objectively delivered and from what I've researched, very accurate. None of us are without mistakes.

[@51WCDodge]

Going back over some of your older stuff. At least you know where Wales is now :-) Have a look at the Tonypandy Riots of 1910/11. My Father was a child at the time, both sides of my Family are South Wales Miners, he spat everytime Churchills name was mentioned. If you get over again, vist the Big Pit at Bleanavon, and the Iron Works next door. You will love that. One thing you do do, the comments after each episode are almost invariably intliegent , entertaing and humourous. Thanks to all for the enjoyment.

[@jameseasterbrooks5363]

My family has lived in Rhode Island since 1630 and one of my forebears was a member of the party that burnt the Gaspee. Rhode Islanders are proud of the event. However the triangle trade brought much pain and suffering to the hundreds of thousands of Africans forced into slavery to promote the trade and wealth in New England. Moses Brown, John’s brother founded the first abolitionist group in North America when he embraced Quakerism, much to the derision of his brother and former partner John. I just finished listening to the “The History of Rum” on Audible and I highly recommend it to everyone who wants a better understanding of what drove the American revolution and the early events that formed the U.S.

[@surinfarmwest6645]

Conclusion: English family moves to a new town, the remaining family tell them how to run their lives and goes for the weekend. Result, heated argument and punches thrown. This is a wonderful insight as to how the colony got irritated and decided to take up arms, thank you so much for sharing.

[@rbnhd1976]

@wargent99 stuff it dummy

[@mbergquist6855]

Having taught U.S. History for many years (now retired), I used the Gaspee Affair as a principle cause of the American Revolution. This event, along with the Boston Tea Party set the stage of the "Intolerable Acts" which led directly to open armed conflict between the American colonies and the British. It also strikes me (after reading Patrick O'Brian's wonderful naval novels) that the aggressive nature of the Royal Navy may have had a lot to do with prize money-- a sure way to wealth for Briitish naval commanders and their crews. Also, thanks to deserved for your wife's(?) wonderful research and writing of these episodes.

[@TheHistoryGuyChannel]

Thank you! Actually, Heidi did not author this episode, although she has authored several. We have other great scriptwriters as well. The description will show the initials of the person who primarily authored the script.

[@total.stranger]

Thank you for this, History Guy! Perhaps a piece on John Clarke, the Rhode Islander who obtained the Charter of July 8, 1663, would be interesting and informative? I'll look forward to your future videos. Thanks again!

[@walterwarren2402]

One of the most important factors in American independence. Truly history that deserves to be remembered

[@SMey54]

I would love to hear more about Quantrill’s Raiders, the Jayhawks, the Kansas/Missouri war, and of course John Brown

[@andrewgreen7234]

I was just reading about that John Brown in a book "Old Saint Joe" today. I second this topic suggestion.

[@steffensgary]

Thank you, from Rhode Island. We feel left out and intentionally excluded from history books.

[@eugenetswong]

What a wonderful history. Thanks for sharing.

[@danischeel4846]

Did you ever consider covering the tradgedy of the SS General Slocum? It definitely is a bit of forgotten history. I learned of it by the estimable Clive Cussler. I love his novels, which incorporates so much history,mainly nautical.

[@Ihaveaglitch]

So the founder of Rhode Island was driven out of Massachusetts because of his religious beliefs? Oh the irony there!

[@Pfsif]

@1tiercel Protestants are Catholic-lite.

[@dickfitswell3437]

Sounds just like the democrat party today

[@dugusmc]

I believe Williams is considered to be the Father of the American Baptists?

[@MrWATCHthisWAY]

Dick Fitswell - I believe you’ve been listening to too much cable Fox Skew.

@Ihaveaglitch Magical thinking leads to insanity.

[@richardmourdock2719]

Perhaps your very best Mr. History Guy. Truly Excellent. Along with the high costs of looking after the colonies the British faced as mentioned here, is also the near bankruptcy of the British by their bailout of the East India Tea Company .... that would make a good presentation for your! Another of those seemingly unrelated events of finance that lead to the founding of the United States. Bravo, H.G>

[@inigomontoya6968]

As always excellent video, but beyond that, wonderfully phrased closing thoughts.

[@marysalisbury9270]

I shared this on FB Thanks for posting! Next I'm looking for King Phillips War.

[@thedevilinthecircuit1414]

We never learned about this in school--probably because a tea party is more..."age appropriate" than a rum party.

[@johnlameelk5339]

It is thought by some scholars that early man abandoned a nomadic lifestyle, and settled in the Indus Valley because natural grain fermentation produced low grade intoxicants. Perhaps only a small number of people at first, (the first drunkards?), trying to increase the potency of the brew. Which lead to trade, and eventually city states. Humans and brewskis go back a long ways.

[@allenrobinson9483]

Really enjoy the presentations on this program. I have always been a fan of history weather American or from other parts of the world. As a suggestion for future episodes how about the origin of Maryland being called the Old Line, it doesn’t have to do with Mason and Dixon. Thanks

[@Jimmie2429]

“Rhode Islanders knew they were no match for the Squirrel”. Things haven’t changed. 😂

[@RonSparks2112]

I've read that people in some of the other colonies called it Rogue Island. Now I can understand why.

[@RonSparks2112]

Lawofimprobability Yes. They sent no delegates to the Constitutional Convention.

[@radiok2ua]

I'd love to see an episode on the Whiskey Rebellion in relation to the British excise, and its effect in precipitating the American Revolution. Thanks for all of your great videos!

[@BillMarion]

@13:54 So refreshing to hear the truth about understanding history.

[@pattiwhite9575]

I did not know about Rum and Newport, RI. I have a family line that settle in Newport way back in the beginning. LOL and I thought they were so holy.