Independence Day in the United States is an important commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on 4 July 1776. This document was, perhaps, the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back and precipitated full-scale war. However, it was just one of many events that brought to a head the inevitable conflict that liberated the colonies and produced the greatest democratic republic in history.

As genealogists and family historians, it is imperative that we become students of history and geography in order to place our ancestors into context and therefore better understand them. Genealogy changed my life's perspective of history, from one that might have viewed historical events as place names and dates to one that caused me to ask, “How did these events influence my ancestors?” and “How did my ancestors interact with these events?” and “Were my ancestors involved in these events and, if so, how did they participate?”

This week I'd like to commemorate the 228th anniversary of Independence Day with a brief review of the events surrounding the American Revolution. Perhaps this review will cause you to consider how your ancestors figured into the events of the times, wherever they were around the globe.

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