In the lead-up to the Revolutionary War, Patrick Henry of Virginia was known as a strong Patriot and advocate for independence. He is most famous for his “Give me liberty or give me death” speech in early 1775, but he also had difficult military experiences during the war. Learn about Henry’s wartime efforts and challenges from military historian John Maass.
John R. Maass, Ph.D., is an education specialist and historian at the National Museum of the United States Army. He received a Ph.D. from the Ohio State University in early U.S. and military history. His most recent book is “From Trenton to Yorktown: Turning Points of the Revolutionary War.” (2025).
Register for the VIRTUAL Battle Brief on May 5 here
This program is offered VIRTUALLY and IN-PERSON on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Museum guests may attend in-person. Seats are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register for the VIRTUAL Battle Brief on May 12 here
Register for the IN-PERSON Battle Brief on May 12 here
Maryland-born General James Wilkinson was an experienced Revolutionary War officer who saw action at Montreal, Trenton, and Saratoga. Later, he served as the commanding general of the U.S. Army in the 1790s and early 1800s and as a field commander in the War of 1812. He was also a paid spy in the service of Spain, sold military secrets to America’s enemies, and engaged in conspiracies along the Mississippi River. Theodore Roosevelt wrote that “in all our history, there is no more despicable character.” Learn from historian John Maass how this soldier, with many years of active service, betrayed his country for land and money.
Dr. John R. Maass is an education specialist and historian at the National Museum of the United States Army. He received a Ph.D. from the Ohio State University in early U.S. history and military history. He is the author of “George Washington’s Virginia” (2017) and “From Trenton to Yorktown: Turning Points of the Revolutionary War” (2025).
Register for VIRTUAL Battle Brief on June 2 here
This program is offered VIRTUALLY and IN-PERSON on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. Museum guests may attend in-person. Seats are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register for VIRTUAL Battle Brief on June 9 here
Register for IN-PERSON Battle Brief on June 9 here
In this special America 250 webinar, experts from Arlington National Cemetery, the National Museum of the United States Army, the National Park Service, In this Special America 250 webinar, experts from Arlington National Cemetery, the National Museum of the United States Army, and the National Park Service will come together to explore the many legacies of the American Revolution at the property that is now Arlington National Cemetery. Topics will include the commemoration of George Washington at Arlington House, the Revolutionary War veterans reburied at Arlington National Cemetery, and the fascinating artifacts that link Arlington to the nation’s founding conflict.
Register for the VIRTUAL Battle Brief on July 7 here
This program is offered VIRTUALLY and IN-PERSON on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. Museum guests may attend in-person. Seats are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register for the VIRTUAL Battle Brief on July 14 here
Register for the IN PERSON Battle Brief on July 14 here