People of Africa who were brought to the New World as slaves did not have citizenship or political rights. Therefore, they did not contribute directly to America's independence from Britain. However, African slaves and their descendants played an essential role in the revolutionary movement towards American independence.
Some of the ways in which people of African descent contributed to the American struggle for independence include:
Participation in the military: Thousands of African men, both free and enslaved, served in the Continental Army and the state militias during the American Revolution. Many acted as soldiers, sailors, or support staff helping the American forces against the British.
While serving in the military, African-Americans gained opportunities to learn new skills that enabled them to support and contribute to the economic development of the new American nation.
The African American slaves' willingness to escape to join the British cause and the general instability that it incurred, encouraged the French to ally with the Americans.
Black Americans’ loyal support to American independence casted pressure over the new government to discuss matters of slavery
Overall, by demonstrating loyalty, strength and courage, African Americans encouraged acceptance and change in a society hostile to its people of dark skin.