Revere, Paul (1735-1818), American silversmith, engraver, and patriot, whose efforts as a courier for the revolutionary cause made him a folk hero. He was born in Boston. While still a young man, Revere acquired a reputation as a designer and maker of elegant silverware. Revere also made engraved printing plates. His most famous engraving, depicting the 1770 Boston Massacre, put him in the forefront of anti-British propagandists. When the fighting began, he carried messages for the revolutionaries of the area. The historic midnight ride of April 18, 1775, was made by Revere and two others to warn of the approach of British troops. British scouts detained Revere en route to Concord, but one of the others got through to the patriots in time.