Rogue History

Criminal or Hero? Different Rules for Queer Men During the Revolution

Despite the revolutionary atmosphere in early America, homosexuality was still punishable by death. Though the Founding Fathers knew of Steuben’s “proclivities,” they let Steuben continue to help them win. By contrast, British Army chaplain Robert Newburgh stood trial for homosexual conduct and used the same ideals that inspired the American Patriots to defend his personal freedom.