Friday, July 29, 2016

Chapter Review: Jack Jouett, the Ride that Saved America, Glenn Beck

Miracles and Massacres: True and Untold Stories of the Making of America, Glenn Beck with Keven Balfe and Hannah Beck, Threshold Editions, Mercury Radio Arts, New York, 2013.

Silhouette of Jack Souett, only known likeness made while he was living.
In this book, Beck brings to light little known stories about American history.  The first is that of Jack Jouett, whose ride should be just as famous as that of Paul Revere.  However these heroics were more towards the end of the war, June of 17821.  Jouett discovered that Colonel Banastre Tarleton was on the move in Virginia, with the intent of capturing Thomas Jefferson and Monticello.  He had discovered this by taking the clothes of a British captive, and using them to visit a tavern frequented by the British.  He had heard the word in a conversation, and with that knowledge was on his ride, going over back roads, where branches cut his face.  He also traveled at night, in all effort to beat Tarleton and his men.  It wasn’t just Thomas Jefferson who needed to be saved.  There were other officers in the area, as well as important communiques that needed to be guarded.  Jouett arrived at Monticello early in the morning, and quickly explained the situation to Jefferson.  He was able to get away with important papers.  However his home was invaded and inhabited by the British for a time.  Others with Jefferson also fled.  Jouett then headed to his father’s inn.  General Edward Stevens was staying at the inn recovering from a wound.  The dressed the general in shabby clothes,  and Jouett wore a bright Continental uniform, shedding his British uniform which was now rags after the ride.  The general was able to mount a horse, and leave with several Continentals.  Jouett showed himself to the British, who began pursuing him.  He lead them on a wild ride through the countryside as the general made him escape.  Thus two rides, one that saved Thomas Jefferson, and the next save General Stevens. 
Monticello

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