A national public history project
Mapping the Invisibles of the Revolution
Recovering the names, hometowns, military service, and journeys of African-descended patriots who helped secure American independence.
The atlas
The project currently presents six completed state atlases. Each one connects individuals to places, service, pensions, movement, and public memory.
Why mapping matters
Traditional records often preserve individual lives in isolation. Mapping reveals relationships. By connecting service, residence, migration, family, and community, the atlas uncovers patterns that are difficult to see when records are viewed one document at a time.
Featured publications
Maurice A. Barboza and Gary B. Nash explain the public origins, obstacles, and historical importance of recovering African-descended Revolutionary service.
Open article