10 Examples of Being Courageous: Stories of True American Grit
Courage is the backbone of America. It’s the quiet resolve to do the right thing when everything’s on the line, the bold act of standing firm when fear says, “Sit down and shut up.” From our founding days to the modern era, Americans have stepped up, put their boots on, and delivered. So today, dear patriots, I bring you ten real American examples of courage—stories of grit, determination, and sheer audacity that will make you want to salute the flag, thank a hero, and maybe punch fear right in the face.
1. James Armistead Lafayette — The Revolutionary Spy
James Armistead Lafayette was an enslaved African American who volunteered as a double agent during the American Revolution. Under the guise of being a loyalist servant, he infiltrated British camps, feeding critical intelligence to General Lafayette. His bravery helped lead to the victory at Yorktown in 1781, yet he returned to enslavement until being freed two years later—an irony not lost on history.
2. Elizabeth Freeman — Fighting for Freedom in Court
In 1781, Elizabeth Freeman (also known as Mum Bett) overheard discussions about Massachusetts' new constitution stating "all men are born free and equal." Taking this to heart, she sued her owner for her freedom and won, setting a legal precedent that helped end slavery in Massachusetts.
3. Mary Bowser — The Spy in the Confederate White House
Mary Bowser was an enslaved woman turned Union spy during the Civil War. Posing as a servant in the Confederate White House, she memorized sensitive documents and relayed vital intelligence back to Union forces. Bowser’s ability to read—something her enemies never suspected—made her one of the most valuable assets in the war.
4. The Forgotten Heroes of the USS Jean Nicolet
During World War II, the crew of the USS Jean Nicolet was captured by Japanese forces after their ship was torpedoed. Despite facing unthinkable torture and execution, the men stood strong in their resistance, demonstrating courage even in their final moments.
5. Irena Sendler's American Counterparts — Unheralded WWII Resistance
Though Sendler is often cited as a Holocaust hero, lesser-known American figures also took life-risking action. Countless individuals helped smuggle Jewish refugees across enemy lines or safeguarded them in their homes at great personal risk. Their names may be forgotten, but their courage endures.
6. Annie Wittenmyer — Caring for Soldiers Through Nutrition
Annie Wittenmyer revolutionized healthcare during the Civil War by creating specialized kitchens in military hospitals to provide tailored nutrition for wounded soldiers. While not a soldier herself, her tireless effort on behalf of their recovery saved lives and demonstrated a new kind of battlefield courage.
7. Roger Sherman — The Compromise that Saved the Constitution
In the tense Constitutional Convention of 1787, smaller states feared being overpowered by larger ones. Enter Roger Sherman, who proposed the Connecticut Compromise—a blend of proportional and equal representation that saved the fledgling government. Sherman’s courage to mediate while others squabbled was instrumental.
8. Bayard Rustin — The Strategist Behind the March on Washington
Bayard Rustin, though lesser known than Martin Luther King Jr., orchestrated the famous March on Washington. A gay Black man during a time of deep prejudice, Rustin displayed immense courage by tirelessly advocating for civil rights despite relentless discrimination.
9. The Women of the Mercury 13 Program
Before men were launching rockets into space, 13 courageous American women underwent grueling astronaut testing in the early 1960s. Though NASA ultimately grounded the Mercury 13, their bravery paved the way for future generations of female astronauts.
10. The Iron Will of “The Lost Battalion” in WWI
In October 1918, the 77th Infantry Division found themselves trapped behind enemy lines in the Argonne Forest. With no reinforcements and dwindling supplies, they held their ground for six brutal days, refusing to surrender. Their stand remains one of the most courageous chapters of WWI.
Courage isn’t reserved for superheroes or history books. It’s a choice. It’s standing up, stepping forward, and pushing through the fear for something bigger than yourself. From Washington’s icy river crossing to Rosa Parks’ defiant sit-in, America’s story is filled with acts of bravery that inspire us to this day.
So the next time you face a challenge, big or small, ask yourself: What would George Washington or Harriet Tubman do?Probably something courageous. What’s stopping you?