Security in America: 1776-1780
| Following all the Independence Day celebrations and gearing up to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary next July, we want to take you on a journey through time over the next few months to explore how as a nation our approach to security has evolved since 1776. As the Revolution began, the young colonies prioritized defense—fortifying land and guarding intelligence. Without the benefit of modern technology, the newly declared United States relied on human observation, fortification, and a growing understanding of military intelligence. SECURITY HIGHLIGHTS FROM 1776-1780 |
| #1 FORT CONSTRUCTION Earthworks, wooden stockades, and bastioned designs offered 360-degree defense and strategic strength. These forts were critical along coastlines and key inland routes. |
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| An illustration of 18th-century field fortifications, showcasing earthworks, stockades, and bastioned layouts. Source: National Park Service |
| #2 COASTAL DEFENSE To fend off British ships and pirates, colonies built and reinforced forts along major harbors and waterways. |
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| A coastal fort overlooking the sea—reflecting the type of earthwork and artillery positions used to protect harbors. Source: Wikimedia Commons |
| #3 ESPIONAGE & INTELLIGENCE The Revolutionary War was also fought in the shadows. American spies used invisible ink, ciphers, and coded letters to stay one step ahead of British forces. |
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| Historic depiction of Revolutionary War-era spycraft techniques, including invisible ink and cipher use. Source: mountvernon.org |
| #4 COMMITTEES OF SECRECY The Continental Congress formed committees to manage covert operations, foreign intelligence, and counter-Loyalist activities. |
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| Delegates of the Second Continental Congress in session, marking the establishment of the Committee of Secret Correspondence in November 1775—America’s first formal intelligence body. Source: DVIDS Hub |
| WHY IT MATTERS TODAY? While technology has changed, the principles of strategic protection, layered defense, and intelligence gathering remain core to modern security. It all began here. Stay with us as we continue the timeline next month—when we shift from revolution to nation-building. You won’t want to miss it! |