Answer:
Parts of the passage that shows that Nate and his family played a role in the American independence are highlighted below
(1) "Somewhere beyond these stingy New Hampshire fields, his brother Eben was marching gloriously with his regiment, defending the colonies against the British", This part shows that Nate's brother is part of the military
(2) Nate's father also mentioned that “Your cousin Abe has joined the militia—guess they fnally thought he was old enough
to be of use" which shows also that Nate's family plays a role in the war.
(3) Also Nate family also helped to feed a troop with potato, water and also provided them with shelter for the night according to the passage.