The Cost of Oversight: How the Continental Congress Almost Lost the American Revolution
Department
History and Political Science
Major
History/Education
Research Advisor
Gragg, Larry Dale, 1950-
Advisor's Department
History and Political Science
Abstract
The American Revolution was one of the most important events in both American and human histories. While this war is well known as being a war of defiance where a republican government attempted to break free from a monarchy, it should also be known as a war in which the legislative body of the new American states took a very active role in the control of the Continental Army. General Washington was an avid proponent of civilian control over the military so he allowed the Second Continental Congress to have a large say in how the American forces operated. Ultimately, due to a rapidly inflating currency and general fear of standing armies, they failed to adequately supply the troops. Despite the flaws of civilian control that were brought to light during the war, the sense of distrust between the government and the military remain today.
Biography
Keiler Swartz is a senior working towards a Bachelor of Arts in History and Secondary Teacher Certification. He is heavily involved with student government both at Missouri S&T and throughout the Midwest. Keiler is looking forward to teaching history and government in a high school setting.
Research Category
Arts and Humanities
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Document Type
Presentation
Location
Carver Room
Presentation Date
11 Apr 2016, 10:00 am - 10:30 am
The Cost of Oversight: How the Continental Congress Almost Lost the American Revolution
Carver Room
The American Revolution was one of the most important events in both American and human histories. While this war is well known as being a war of defiance where a republican government attempted to break free from a monarchy, it should also be known as a war in which the legislative body of the new American states took a very active role in the control of the Continental Army. General Washington was an avid proponent of civilian control over the military so he allowed the Second Continental Congress to have a large say in how the American forces operated. Ultimately, due to a rapidly inflating currency and general fear of standing armies, they failed to adequately supply the troops. Despite the flaws of civilian control that were brought to light during the war, the sense of distrust between the government and the military remain today.
