Mary Silliman's War

Best way to teach the Revolution
I've been using Mary Silliman's War in my United States History class for several years now. Mary's is an amazing story, all true and based on her letters. The film is beautifully done and engrossing to watch. It communicates so many aspects of those revolutionary times: the torn loyalties, the religious and moral underpinnings of colonial life, the tenuous self-government of the fledging nation during wartime, the deep divisions between British and American lifestyles, and the very real day to day hardships required of those who sought independence. Every year I ask my juniors if I should show the film to the following year's class. The answer is always a resounding yes. Great film.

A film that delivers!
Mary Silliman's War tells the story of one woman's tragic experiences during the Revolutionary War. It is based on letters and documents from her life. She was married to the State's Attorney for the newly created state of Connecticut. Her hometown of Fairfield experiences the not uncommon divisiveness of the war as neighbors align themselves with the Loyalists sympathetic to the crown and the Patriots determined to be free from British tyranny. Numerous themes are woven throughout the plot which centers on Mary's attempts to arrange the release of her husband who was kidnapped by Loyalists and is being held in British custody on Long Island. Slavery,gender roles,religion and the brutality of war are explored in this well-acted dramatization. Over the years, my high school students have given this film a positive review. It brings to life the effects of the Revolution on ordinary folks by being not only historically accurate but very realistic in its portrayals. Suspense...

educational jem
What a great experience for high school students! This is the Revolution from a woman's perspective. It also makes it clear that the conflict was a civil war to Americans who lived through it.

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