In this episode of Revolution Revisited™, host Maggie Creech and guest historian Dr. Rick Bell delve into the critical decade leading up to the American Revolution, from 1763 to 1773.

As Britain grappled with post-war financial crisis, its new taxation policies on the American colonies ignited simmering tensions and widespread defiance. Explore key events including the Sugar Act, the Stamp Act, and the Townshend Acts, and learn how these taxes led to colonial protests, boycotts, and a growing demand for representation. Discover the pivotal moments of intercolonial unity and resistance that set the stage for the revolution. This episode highlights not just the economic grievances but the burgeoning American identity and the quest for rights and freedom that would define a nation.

Dr. Richard Bell, Professor of History at the University of Maryland & Author

• Richard Bell is Professor of History at the University of Maryland and author of the book Stolen: Five Free Boys Kidnapped into Slavery and their Astonishing Odyssey Home which was a finalist for the George Washington Prize and the Harriet Tubman Prize. He has held major research fellowships at Yale, Cambridge, and the Library of Congress and is the recipient of the National Endowment of the Humanities Public Scholar award and the Andrew Carnegie Fellowship. He serves as a Trustee of the Maryland Center for History and Culture and as a fellow of the Royal Historical Society.

• 00:00 Introduction to Revolution Revisited
• 01:36 Setting the Stage: Post-War Financial Crisis
• 04:53 Colonial Reactions to British Taxation
• 07:42 The Sugar Act and Its Impact
• 10:05 The Stamp Act: A Direct Tax on Daily Life
• 13:55 Patrick Henry and the Virginia Resolves
• 28:52 The Townshend Acts and Colonial Boycotts
• 38:34 The Tea Act and the Boston Tea Party
• 43:50 The Coercive Acts and Rising Tensions
• 47:55 Conclusion and Next Episode

Revolution Revisited™ is produced by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of William & Karen Fralin. © 2025 Virginia Museum of History & Culture

In this inaugural episode of Revolution Revisited™, host Maggie Creech, alongside experts Travis Henline and Michael Plumb, delves into the often overlooked French and Indian War, revealing its critical role in igniting the American Revolution.

As conflicts between European powers Britain and France entangled indigenous nations and set the stage for the Declaration of Independence, notable figures like George Washington and indigenous leader Tanaghrisson emerge, highlighting their early contributions and ambitions. This episode explores key battles, alliances, and the contentious Proclamation Line of 1763, shedding light on the broader historical context that preceded America's fight for independence. Listeners will also discover items from the Virginia Museum of History & Culture's collection, including a letter Washington wrote to Governor Dinwiddie.

Ultimately, the episode underscores the complex interplay of colonial ambitions, indigenous interests, and the evolving sense of American identity that emerged through the colonies' cooperation in the conflict.

Michael Plumb: Vice President of Guest Engagement, Virginia Museum of History & Culture

• Michael Plumb, Vice President for Guest Engagement, holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from Washington & Jefferson College and a Master of Arts in history from George Mason University. He has worked in the museum field for almost 15 years and was employed by George Washington’s Mount Vernon as Manager of Program Development and Digital Engagement before joining the VMHC in 2017.

Travis Henline: Curator of Indigenous History, Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation

• Travis Henline earned his MA in history from West Virginia University. He has spent a career in public history and museums, working for the National Park Service, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, and the WV Division of Culture and History. He currently serves as the Curator of Indigenous History and Culture for the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation in Williamsburg, VA.

• 00:00 Introduction to Revolution Revisited
• 00:43 The French and Indian War: Setting the Stage
• 04:00 The Ohio River Valley: A Contested Territory
• 08:14 George Washington's Early Military Exploits
• 14:37 The First Skirmishes and Fort Necessity
• 21:46 Indigenous Nations and Their Role
• 27:48 The Treaty of Paris and Its Aftermath
• 29:19 The Proclamation Line of 1763
• 33:17 The Road to the American Revolution
• 33:55 Conclusion and Credits

Revolution Revisited™ is produced by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of William & Karen Fralin. © 2025 Virginia Museum of History & Culture

Welcome to Revolution Revisited™, your crash course in the American Revolution. Join us as we dive into the stories of Virginia's rebels, rule breakers, and rabble rousers.

In Season 1: The Road to Revolution, we trace Virginia's path through the French & Indian War to rebellion against the British Crown. From the Stamp Act to Patrick Henry’s iconic "Give Me Liberty" speech, we explore the key events, figures, and themes that shaped the colonies' path toward independence. Across six episodes, hear from historians Travis Henline, Michael Plumb, Sam Florer, Dr. Richard Bell, Dr. Cathy Hellier, Dr. James Herrera-Brookes, and Dr. John Ragosta.

Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform and join us for a captivating journey through the American Revolution.

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Revolution Revisited™ is produced by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of William & Karen Fralin. © 2025 Virginia Museum of History & Culture