How Freemasonry Steered the American Revolution and the...

Although their influence on the social sphere was by far the largest, the masons also had an impact on military conditions during the American Revolution and War for Independence. The masons were essential in providing military camaraderie during the wars leading up to the American Revolution and during the Revolutionary war through their military lodges and inclusive stance. Military Lodges provided support and boosted morale for soldiers during the War for Independence among other wars. Military lodges were much like normal lodges except that they did not have permanent locations. These lodges were portable so that they could travel with the military and so that freemasons fighting in the war has the ability to continue their membership†¦show more content†¦The masons left this lasting impact on the society with only small gestures such as their inclusive stance and motivational lodges. Besides the masons internal effects such as the spreading of republican principles in the social arena and the motivation in the military, freemasons also left their mark on international affairs during the American Revolution. Masons were vital as unofficial ambassadors in international affairs between the United States and other peoples both European and Native American. One thing freemasonry did for foreign affairs is that it encouraged goodwill amid fighting. When two people or groups are in a fight, much less a war, often the parties are less than cordial to each other. Freemasonry ensured that despite fighting, men on either side would be respected. During the War for Independence, this became important in saving masonic loves. Brant led a group of Mohawks Indians during the war in support the British. This group captured Colonel John McKinstry, a patriot and a mason. When McKinstry displayed the masonic recognition sign, it is reported that Brent freed him and sent him back to his army. It has been reported that a similar occurrence happened with other men such as Lieutenant Jonathon Maynard and Major John Wood (Ridley 102). Now these stories could be folklore passed down through generations, but should they be true, they reflect a respect that freemasonry creates between men of different nationalities. This