Washington Irving’s 1820 short story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” holds a special place in mainstream American fiction and folklore. Irving managed to capture the quintessential 18th-century American experience while providing children and adults alike with a spooky local legend that has since grown to international fame (thanks in part to Walt Disney’s 1949 animated…
Month: November 2019
The Tragic Tale of Major John André
Calling the tale of British Major John André “tragic” may seem entirely too sympathetic for a man who was working with the traitorous Benedict Arnold to undermine the American war effort; however, even after his capture and execution, many American officers and soldiers were believed to have felt pity for the well-liked gentleman. Alexander Hamilton…
The Battle of Stonington
The War of 1812 (fought from June 1812 to February 1815) seems to get lost amongst the subjects covered in American history classes. Having occurred between the American Revolution and the U.S. Civil War, it almost makes sense; however, the war had long lasting effects on our nation. From the plains of Canada, naval battles…