On this day - 1776 - Nathan Hale volunteered to spy behind British lines

Nathan Hale was a continental soldier during the American Revolutionary War who was hung for spying by the British in 1776.

Recruited by General Washington Hale was sent behind enemy lines during the Battle of Long Island but was discovered and then hung.

He is famous for his reported last words before his execution "I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country." Hale is the state hero of the US state of Connecticut.

Nathan was 21 years old.