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The battles of Lexington and Concord started the Revolutionary War in 1775. Archaeologists have recently found 240 year old musket balls that were shot in the first battles of the Revolution. The Colonial and British musket balls are from the second battle at Minute Man Park in Lexington, where Captain Parker fought the British and caused them to retreat. With this discovery, people are broadening the area where they thought this battle took place. Although it’s hard to determine exact details, new technology helps archaeologists find out what happened at this site so long ago. Listen to hear more about what can be learned about the start of the American Revolution.
Story Length: 5:53
WBUR
AIR DATE: 10/28/2015
August 19, 2015
5:14
Historically slaves in the United States are depicted as uneducated farm hands on plantations in the South. But that wasn’t true for all slaves. One famous slave named Yarrow Mamout was an educated Muslim who earned his freedom and even had his portrait painted by a famous American painter. He was a entrepreneur, money-lender and stock-owner, as well as having a reputation for being honest and moral. Archaeologists are trying to find out more about Yarrow Mamout by excavating a plot of land in Georgetown where he owned a home from 1796 until his death in 1823. Listen to this story to learn why this former slave is so well-known and respected.
Read MoreApril 26, 2015
3:51
Great Britain has a long history as a global power. From colonies around the world to diplomatic leadership, Britain has been a powerful leader through history. But the United Kingdom’s involvement and influence has waned in recent years. Since Britain’s involvement in the military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the British people and their politicians in Parliament have withdrawn from the world stage and turned their attentions inward. Listen to learn more about the causes and effects of Britain’s surprising absence from the world stage.
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