Outlander season 4 within the shadow of the Revolutionary War

As it has been well-documented on CarterMatt over time, we are not an Outlander book reader — we prefer to still have some element of surprise while watching the series so we can view it fairly independently. Yet, one thing we absolutely are is an American history buff and someone who has absolutely watched many a great TV series about the Revolutionary War. (Go watch Turn: Washington’s Spies if you haven’t already, one of the most underrated series of the past several years.)

So where will Outlander season 4 be within the American Revolution timeline? There are a few interesting talking points that are worth examination here, starting with the year 1767. This is when Jamie and Claire first arrive in the New World after spending some time in Jamaica. This is less than ten years from the Declaration of Independence, but it is only four years, give or take, from the Battle of Alamance — this fight in North Carolina over issues such as taxation and local regulation is considered by some to be one of the building blocks to the American Revolution. Even if the direct intention for this battle was not to start a war or overthrow the Crown’s rule, it furthered discussions about freedom and independence.

Would it be great to see Outlander make it to this point sooner rather than later? Absolutely, given that there is so much meaty stuff that can be addressed at around this time. This is especially true for Claire, and we will continue to raise questions regarding whether or not her knowledge of history proves to be useful to the battles that inevitably lie ahead. She knows about the Revolution, the Declaration of Independence, and more — how much power does she wield? That’s the troublesome thing. If she spreads too much information she becomes a witch all over again; even if she’s not perceived as evil, there’s still a chance some egocentric blowhards in power will not believe her.

Either way, from a historian point of view seeing how Jamie and Claire navigate some of these issues is one of the most interesting things about Outlander season 4 and the seasons that follow. There may be no need to rush to this part of the timeline, but we’re curious to see how the attitudes of Jamie and Claire towards the Revolution shift and evolve given what we know lies ahead in history … let alone their own role in it. Jamie especially has a reason to rebel against the British, who captured him on numerous occasions and even wanted to arrest and try him as Alexander Malcolm at the end of this past season.

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While we know that the love story component is essential for Outlander, seeing them weave through history to us is equally worth the prize of admission. There should be plenty of fun, not to mention great drama, seeing how much the Frasers contend with changing tides in North America in the 18th-century.

What are you most excited to see when it comes to Outlander season 4 and Jamie & Claire’s role in history? Share below, and be sure to like CarterMatt on Facebook for some additional insight regarding the drama. (Photo: Starz.)