Author: Raphael Corletta

Raphael lives in Annapolis, Maryland, and has been fascinated by the American Revolution since a young age. He received a bachelor’s degree in history from Shepherd University. After graduating from college Raphael has worked at a range of historical sites across the country including a fort from the French and Indian War and the home of a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He currently works for Historic Annapolis, where he often gives tours of the city in 18th-century garb. In the future he hopes to continue his study of American history in grad school. When not pursuing his passion for history, Raphael enjoys traveling the world, acting, creative writing, and enjoying the company of his friends and family.

 Religion Posted on

“In the Cause of American Liberty:” Catholic Contributions to Independence

Eighteenth-century America was predominantly Protestant, and the Thirteen Colonies suffered from a virulent strain of anti-Catholicism. Despite this, the mostly-Protestant Founding Fathers, while being greatly inspired by their Protestant English forebears, were greatly inspired by Catholic thinkers as well. The United States was not established as a Christian country, with American diplomats asserting in 1797: […]

by Raphael Corletta
The War Years (1775-1783) Posted on

“To Render Ourselves Impregnable”: The Defenses of Annapolis during the American Revolution

The city of Annapolis has never been attacked in its long history, but it has nonetheless played an important role in American conflicts, with the American Revolution being no exception. While the British never attempted to capture the city, extensive fortifications were built around Annapolis to hold off a possible British attack. What were the […]

by Raphael Corletta