A person obtained a Revolutionary War pension by meeting the requirements established by the United States Congress. These requirements varied over time, but generally included:
- Having served in the Continental Army or one of the state militias during the Revolutionary War
- Being indigent or infirm
- Having been disabled in the war
- Being the widow of a veteran who met the above requirements
To obtain a pension, a veteran or widow would need to submit an application to the War Department. The application would need to include documentation of the veteran's service, such as a discharge certificate or a letter from a commanding officer. The applicant would also need to provide proof of their financial need or disability.
Once an application was submitted, it would be reviewed by a board of inquiry. The board would investigate the applicant's claims and make a recommendation to the War Department. The War Department would then make a decision on whether or not to grant the pension.
The first pension laws for Revolutionary War veterans were passed in 1778. These laws provided for pensions for veterans who were disabled in the war. In 1818, Congress passed a law that provided pensions for all veterans who were indigent or infirm. This law was later expanded to include widows of veterans.
The pension program for Revolutionary War veterans was a major expense for the federal government. However, it was also a popular program, as it provided financial assistance to veterans and their families who were in need.
The last Revolutionary War pensioner died in 1906.
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