Summary
Selina Baker, author of the novel "Act Worthy of Yourselves," discusses her latest work centered on Dr. Joseph Warren, a significant yet often overlooked figure in the American Revolution. Warren, known as the "Founding Martyr," played a crucial role in the early stages of the conflict, notably as a political leader and a medical professional. Baker's fascination with Warren stems from her extensive research over the past decade, which includes her involvement with the Dr. Joseph Warren Foundation.
Warren's journey begins in Roxbury, Massachusetts, where he was born in 1741. He was a well-educated man, having attended Harvard at a young age and later apprenticed under a prominent physician. His medical career was marked by his progressive approach to obstetrics, a field typically dominated by women at the time. As tensions escalated in the colonies, Warren became increasingly involved in the Patriot cause, using his voice in newspapers to oppose British policies and participating in secret meetings with other revolutionary leaders.
Baker highlights Warren's multifaceted contributions, including his role in the Boston Massacre orations and his leadership in the Massachusetts Provincial Congress. His commitment to the Patriot cause culminated in his participation in the Battle of Bunker Hill, where he died heroically while trying to defend the redoubt. Despite his significant impact, Warren's life was tragically cut short, and he never witnessed the formation of the Continental Army, which he had long advocated for. Baker's novel aims to portray Warren not just as a historical figure but as a man with a rich personal life and a deep commitment to his community and country.
Show Notes
Our roundtable discussion welcomed Salina Baker, author of Act Worthy of Yourselves: A Novel of Dr. Joseph Warren and an American Rebellion to discuss Joseph Warren.
View a summary of this episode on my blog: https://blog.amrevpodcast.com/2026/10/ar-sp55-joseph-warren-with-salina-baker.html
Buy the book: Act Worthy of Yourselves: A Novel of Dr. Joseph Warren and an American Rebellion
Salina Baker's website: https://www.salinabbaker.com
To see upcoming roundtable events, or listen to past recordings, go to https://amrevrt.org/virtual-round-table-events
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