Posted on Sep 22, 2019
Nathan Hale is executed by the British for spying
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On September 22, 1776, Nathan Hale, US captain, patriot, and spy, washanged by the British for spying at the age of 21. From the article:
"Nathan Hale is executed by the British for spying
In New York City on September 22, 1776, Nathan Hale, a Connecticut schoolteacher and captain in the Continental Army, is executed by the British for spying.
A graduate of Yale University, Hale joined a Connecticut regiment in 1775 and served in the successful siege of British-occupied Boston. On September 10, 1776, he volunteered to cross behind British lines on Long Island to spy on the British in preparation for the Battle of Harlem Heights.
Disguised as a Dutch schoolmaster, the Yale-educated Hale slipped behind British lines on Long Island and successfully gathered information about British troop movements for the next several weeks. While Hale was behind enemy lines, the British invaded the island of Manhattan; they took control of the city on September 15, 1776. When the city was set on fire on September 20, British soldiers were told to look out for sympathizers to the Patriot cause. The following evening, September 21, Hale was captured while sailing Long Island Sound, trying to cross back into American-controlled territory. Although rumors surfaced that Hale was betrayed by his first cousin and British Loyalist Samuel Hale, the exact circumstances of Hale’s capture have never been discovered.
Hale was interrogated by British General William Howe and, when it was discovered that he was carrying incriminating documents, General Howe ordered his execution for spying, which was set for the following morning. After being led to the gallows, legend holds that the 21-year-old Hale said, “I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country.” There is no historical record to prove that Hale actually made this statement, but, if he did, he may have been inspired by these lines in English author Joseph Addison’s 1713 play Cato: 'What a pity it is/That we can die but once to serve our country.'”
"Nathan Hale is executed by the British for spying
In New York City on September 22, 1776, Nathan Hale, a Connecticut schoolteacher and captain in the Continental Army, is executed by the British for spying.
A graduate of Yale University, Hale joined a Connecticut regiment in 1775 and served in the successful siege of British-occupied Boston. On September 10, 1776, he volunteered to cross behind British lines on Long Island to spy on the British in preparation for the Battle of Harlem Heights.
Disguised as a Dutch schoolmaster, the Yale-educated Hale slipped behind British lines on Long Island and successfully gathered information about British troop movements for the next several weeks. While Hale was behind enemy lines, the British invaded the island of Manhattan; they took control of the city on September 15, 1776. When the city was set on fire on September 20, British soldiers were told to look out for sympathizers to the Patriot cause. The following evening, September 21, Hale was captured while sailing Long Island Sound, trying to cross back into American-controlled territory. Although rumors surfaced that Hale was betrayed by his first cousin and British Loyalist Samuel Hale, the exact circumstances of Hale’s capture have never been discovered.
Hale was interrogated by British General William Howe and, when it was discovered that he was carrying incriminating documents, General Howe ordered his execution for spying, which was set for the following morning. After being led to the gallows, legend holds that the 21-year-old Hale said, “I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country.” There is no historical record to prove that Hale actually made this statement, but, if he did, he may have been inspired by these lines in English author Joseph Addison’s 1713 play Cato: 'What a pity it is/That we can die but once to serve our country.'”
Nathan Hale is executed by the British for spying
Posted from history.com
War of Independence
World History
American History
Military History
Combat
Posted 5 y ago
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National History Day (NHD) 2017 Documentary | Nathan Hale the Martyr-Spy of the American...
National History Day (NHD) 2017 Documentary | Nathan Hale the Martyr-Spy of the American Revolution State entry 2017
Thank you, my friend SGT (Join to see) for reminding us that on September 22, 1776 Captain Nathan Hale of the 19th Regiment of the Continental Army was hanged by the British for spying at the age of 21
On September 10, 1776, George Washington "asked for a volunteer for an extremely dangerous mission: to gather intelligence behind enemy lines before the coming Battle of Harlem Heights. Captain Nathan Hale of the 19th Regiment of the Continental Army stepped forward."
He was hanged 12 days after beginning his mission.
Rest in peace Nathan Hale
Images:
1. 1856 Illustration of Nathan Hale approaching the British in 1776 from Life of Captain Nathan Hale, the Martyr Spy of the American Revolution by Isaac William Stuart, 1856
2. 1776-09-22 Last Words of Captain Nathan Hale, the Hero-Martyr of the American Revolution - New York as he was hung as a spy on September 22, 1776
3. 1922-25 U.S. #551 Series of 1922-25 one half ¢ Nathan Hale.
National History Day (NHD) 2017 Documentary | Nathan Hale the Martyr-Spy of the American Revolution
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2wjNzlZay0
Background from: Nathan Hale Biography - Military Leader, Spy (1755–1776) from .biography.com/people/nathan-hale-9325477
Nathan Hale graduated from Yale University in 1773, joined the American Revolution and was hanged by the British for espionage in 1776.
Synopsis
Nathan Hale was born in Coventry, Connecticut, on June 6, 1755. After graduating from Yale University, he became a schoolteacher. When war began in the American colonies, he joined a Connecticut regiment and was made a captain in 1776. On a secret mission ordered by General George Washington, Hale went behind enemy lines to gather information on the British army’s location. He was captured by the British in New York City and hanged for espionage on September 22, 1776.
Early Life
Nathan Hale was born on June 6, 1755, in Coventry, Connecticut, the second son of Richard and Elizabeth Hale. A prominent family, the Hales were devout Puritans and instilled in their children the importance of hard work, religious virtue and education. At 14, Nathan was sent off to Yale College with his older brother, Enoch, where he excelled in literature and debate. He graduated with honors, at age 18, and became a school teacher in East Haddam and later New London, Connecticut.
Volunteers in Service of his Country
In July, 1775, Nathan Hale joined the Connecticut militia and was elected First Lieutenant. Some accounts say he saw battle during the Siege of Boston, while others point out he was still under his teaching obligation. Records do show he was commissioned a captain in General George Washington’s army in January, 1776.
After the British captured Boston, General Washington moved his army to New York, where he expected the next British attack. The Continental Army’s defeat at Brooklyn Heights in August, 1776, pushed Washington’s army into Manhattan and gave the British control of most of Long Island. Washington desperately needed reliable information on the British’s next move and began asking for volunteers to cross enemy lines.
Secret Spy Mission
Though spying was not considered honorable for a gentleman, Nathan Hale volunteered, perhaps out of a sense of duty, or because he hadn’t seen military action up to then. In any case, he was fully aware of the danger: spies were considered illegal combatants and quickly executed.
Nathan Hale left the American lines at Harlem Heights on September 12, 1776, posing as an itinerant teacher. He traveled to Norwalk, Connecticut, where he took passage across Long Island Sound and landed in Huntington, Long Island. He most likely spent a few days in Huntington, impersonating as a teacher looking for work. Meanwhile, on September 16, the British Army engaged General Washington’s troops at Harlem Heights. It’s believed Hale heard of the British attack and realizing his current mission was superfluous and made his way to New York City, presumably to gather what information he could about the British Army’s next move.
Capture and Execution
Here is where details of Hale’s spying mission slip in and out of legend. Some accounts state he was recognized by his cousin, Samuel Hale, a Loyalist working for the British, who turned him over to authorities. Another version reports British Major Robert Rogers recognized Hale, despite his disguise, in a New York City tavern. Not divulging his revelation, Rogers struck up a conversation with Hale and gained his trust, telling him he was a patriot sympathizer. According to this account, Hale told Rogers he was gathering information on the British Army’s positions. Rogers invited Hale to dinner at this quarters with several “friends.” As he dined, Hale was taken into custody.
Nathan Hale was sent to British headquarters for questioning by British General William Howe. Maps and drawings of fortifications were found on Hale, further implicating him as a spy. He provided his name, rank, and the reason he was behind British lines. In quick succession, execution orders were issued by Howe and Hale was hung the morning of September 22, 1776. By all accounts, Hale met his fate with composure and resolve. As he was the hangman’s noose was placed around his neck, he made a “sensible and spirited speech” in defense of his actions and sense of duty. Legend states he declared, “I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country.” There are several accounts by made at the time that reveal he said something impressive, but no official record of this declaration exists. His body was left hanging for several days and was later buried in an unmarked grave.
Legacy
It is fair to say Nathan Hale was not a very good spy. It is also fair to note that by all contemporary accounts of his life and death, he was an intelligent and patriotic young man who displayed a strong love for country. After his death, his loyal friends and an anxious American public looking for heroes, transformed this young neophyte warrior into a symbol of self-sacrifice and martyrdom. Many statues and memorials were erected honoring his bravery and service to country in the years following his death. In 1985, Nathan Hale was officially designated Connecticut’s state hero. "
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On September 10, 1776, George Washington "asked for a volunteer for an extremely dangerous mission: to gather intelligence behind enemy lines before the coming Battle of Harlem Heights. Captain Nathan Hale of the 19th Regiment of the Continental Army stepped forward."
He was hanged 12 days after beginning his mission.
Rest in peace Nathan Hale
Images:
1. 1856 Illustration of Nathan Hale approaching the British in 1776 from Life of Captain Nathan Hale, the Martyr Spy of the American Revolution by Isaac William Stuart, 1856
2. 1776-09-22 Last Words of Captain Nathan Hale, the Hero-Martyr of the American Revolution - New York as he was hung as a spy on September 22, 1776
3. 1922-25 U.S. #551 Series of 1922-25 one half ¢ Nathan Hale.
National History Day (NHD) 2017 Documentary | Nathan Hale the Martyr-Spy of the American Revolution
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2wjNzlZay0
Background from: Nathan Hale Biography - Military Leader, Spy (1755–1776) from .biography.com/people/nathan-hale-9325477
Nathan Hale graduated from Yale University in 1773, joined the American Revolution and was hanged by the British for espionage in 1776.
Synopsis
Nathan Hale was born in Coventry, Connecticut, on June 6, 1755. After graduating from Yale University, he became a schoolteacher. When war began in the American colonies, he joined a Connecticut regiment and was made a captain in 1776. On a secret mission ordered by General George Washington, Hale went behind enemy lines to gather information on the British army’s location. He was captured by the British in New York City and hanged for espionage on September 22, 1776.
Early Life
Nathan Hale was born on June 6, 1755, in Coventry, Connecticut, the second son of Richard and Elizabeth Hale. A prominent family, the Hales were devout Puritans and instilled in their children the importance of hard work, religious virtue and education. At 14, Nathan was sent off to Yale College with his older brother, Enoch, where he excelled in literature and debate. He graduated with honors, at age 18, and became a school teacher in East Haddam and later New London, Connecticut.
Volunteers in Service of his Country
In July, 1775, Nathan Hale joined the Connecticut militia and was elected First Lieutenant. Some accounts say he saw battle during the Siege of Boston, while others point out he was still under his teaching obligation. Records do show he was commissioned a captain in General George Washington’s army in January, 1776.
After the British captured Boston, General Washington moved his army to New York, where he expected the next British attack. The Continental Army’s defeat at Brooklyn Heights in August, 1776, pushed Washington’s army into Manhattan and gave the British control of most of Long Island. Washington desperately needed reliable information on the British’s next move and began asking for volunteers to cross enemy lines.
Secret Spy Mission
Though spying was not considered honorable for a gentleman, Nathan Hale volunteered, perhaps out of a sense of duty, or because he hadn’t seen military action up to then. In any case, he was fully aware of the danger: spies were considered illegal combatants and quickly executed.
Nathan Hale left the American lines at Harlem Heights on September 12, 1776, posing as an itinerant teacher. He traveled to Norwalk, Connecticut, where he took passage across Long Island Sound and landed in Huntington, Long Island. He most likely spent a few days in Huntington, impersonating as a teacher looking for work. Meanwhile, on September 16, the British Army engaged General Washington’s troops at Harlem Heights. It’s believed Hale heard of the British attack and realizing his current mission was superfluous and made his way to New York City, presumably to gather what information he could about the British Army’s next move.
Capture and Execution
Here is where details of Hale’s spying mission slip in and out of legend. Some accounts state he was recognized by his cousin, Samuel Hale, a Loyalist working for the British, who turned him over to authorities. Another version reports British Major Robert Rogers recognized Hale, despite his disguise, in a New York City tavern. Not divulging his revelation, Rogers struck up a conversation with Hale and gained his trust, telling him he was a patriot sympathizer. According to this account, Hale told Rogers he was gathering information on the British Army’s positions. Rogers invited Hale to dinner at this quarters with several “friends.” As he dined, Hale was taken into custody.
Nathan Hale was sent to British headquarters for questioning by British General William Howe. Maps and drawings of fortifications were found on Hale, further implicating him as a spy. He provided his name, rank, and the reason he was behind British lines. In quick succession, execution orders were issued by Howe and Hale was hung the morning of September 22, 1776. By all accounts, Hale met his fate with composure and resolve. As he was the hangman’s noose was placed around his neck, he made a “sensible and spirited speech” in defense of his actions and sense of duty. Legend states he declared, “I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country.” There are several accounts by made at the time that reveal he said something impressive, but no official record of this declaration exists. His body was left hanging for several days and was later buried in an unmarked grave.
Legacy
It is fair to say Nathan Hale was not a very good spy. It is also fair to note that by all contemporary accounts of his life and death, he was an intelligent and patriotic young man who displayed a strong love for country. After his death, his loyal friends and an anxious American public looking for heroes, transformed this young neophyte warrior into a symbol of self-sacrifice and martyrdom. Many statues and memorials were erected honoring his bravery and service to country in the years following his death. In 1985, Nathan Hale was officially designated Connecticut’s state hero. "
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Cpl James R. " Jim" Gossett Jr SPC Jon O.SP5 Jeannie Carle
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MSgt Gerald Orvis
General Washington and his spies tried to capture Benedict Arnold after his treason but failed. The British granted Arnold a brigadier's commission and he raised a regiment of loyalists after going over, and established his HQ in New York City. Washington badly wanted Arnold back, but how to do it. He decided on a snatch-and-grab operation, but in order to do so he needed intel. He and Brigadier Richard Henry Lee, commander of Lee's Legion (a combined infantry/cavalry unit) decided to recruit Serjeant-Major John Champe of the Legion to be the spy. Champe agreed and under complete secrecy he "deserted" one night and successfully escaped from American provost patrols to make it to British lines. He was taken to New York and successfully got past interrogation and enlisted as a serjeant in Arnold's regiment. Arnold was impressed by Champe and took him into his HQ as a clerk. Thereafter, Champe gathered info about Arnold's routine and passed it to American spies in New York. Based on this, the spies planned the snatch-and-grab, but the day before it was planned to go down, Arnold's regiment was ordered on the Norfolk VA raid and Arnold departed with it, as did Champe. In southern VA, Champe successfully deserted from his British regiment and returned to Washington. Washington decided that the operation could not be publicized and gave Champe his discharge, swearing him to secrecy. Champe returned to his farm near Middleberg VA, but his neighbors knew him only as a deserter, and treated him badly with persecution, etc. Finally, Champe got tired of it and moved to Tennessee, where he later died. He never divulged the secret operation of which he was a part. There is now a monument on the site of his farm. After the Civil War, Champe's story was outlined in the book, "The American Revolution in the South" by Robert E. Lee, Richard Henry's son. Of interest, another source (a British military magazine of early 1820s) that I found tells the story of a former British captain who was touring the new United States after the Revolution. He was caught in a terrific storm in Virginia and seeing a light, went to it and found himself admitted into former Sergeant-Major Champe's house. By an amazing coincidence, it turned out that the Brit was Champe's former company commander in Arnold's regiment when Champe deserted back to the Americans. He said the meeting was quite convivial and he was amazed to find out what Champe had been up to that brought him to Arnold's regiment.
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LTC Wayne Brandon
MSgt Gerald Orvis - That's an interesting adjunct to this larger bit of history.
Thank you for adding it to this post.
Thank you for adding it to this post.
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