The American Revolution on Long Island

A history of the Revolutionary War and British occupation in this part of New York, from the Culper spy ring to the prison ships where thousands died.

The American Revolution sharply divided families and towns on New York's Long Island. Washington's defeat at the Battle of Long Island in August 1776 started seven years of British occupation—and Patriot sympathizers were subject to loyalty oaths, theft of property, and the quartering of soldiers in their homes.

Those who crossed the Briti...