The American Revolutionary War was a pivotal moment in United States history. The colonies had to decide whether they would fight for their independence from Great Britain or remain loyal to the Crown. Lin-Manuel Miranda's play "Hamilton" explores the various perspectives on this issue through its music. In the songs "My Shot," "Farmer Refuted," and "You'll Be Back," different points of view about whether the colonies should fight for freedom are presented. This essay argues that the stronger argument is for the colonies to fight for their independence from Great Britain.
In "My Shot," the protagonist Alexander Hamilton declares, "I am not throwing away my shot" (Miranda). This line demonstrates Hamilton's determination to seize the opportunity to fight for freedom. Additionally, in the same song, John Laurens asserts, "We'll never be truly free until those in bondage have the same rights as you and me" (Miranda). This quote emphasizes the importance of freedom for all, and not just for the colonists. These lines support the thesis statement because they demonstrate the fervor and urgency behind the colonists' desire for independence, and they highlight the broader social justice implications of the fight for freedom.
In "Farmer Refuted," Samuel Seabury argues, "Heed not the rabble/Who scream Revolution, they/Have not your interests at heart" (Miranda). This quote represents the loyalist perspective, urging colonists to remain loyal to Great Britain. However, the context of the song suggests that Seabury is a villain, and his arguments are flawed. On the other hand, Alexander Hamilton responds, "Ev'ry proclamation/Discredits Parliament more" (Miranda). This quote exposes the corruption of the British Parliament and supports the argument for independence. Hamilton's response highlights the fact that the colonists' voices are not being heard, and that the only way to achieve true independence is through revolution.
In "You'll Be Back," King George III sings, "When push comes to shove/I will kill your friends and family to remind you of my love" (Miranda). This quote represents the perspective of those who want to keep the colonies under British rule. However, the threat of violence reveals the cruelty and unjust nature of such a rule. Moreover, in the same song, King George III asserts, "Oceans rise, empires fall/We have seen each other through it all" (Miranda). This quote shows the arrogance of the British monarchy, suggesting that they have an unbreakable bond with the colonies. This line supports the thesis statement because it demonstrates the colonists' need to break free from the oppressive and condescending rule of the British monarchy.
In conclusion, the songs "My Shot," "Farmer Refuted," and "You'll Be Back" present different points of view about whether the colonies should fight for freedom. While loyalists argued for remaining under British rule, the stronger argument is for the colonies to fight for their independence from Great Britain. Evidence from the songs shows the urgency behind the colonists' desire for independence, exposes the corruption of the British Parliament, and highlights the unjust and condescending nature of British rule.