Benjamin Martin, portrayed by Mel Gibson, is a seasoned veteran of the French and Indian War, now a widower dedicated to raising his seven children—five sons and two daughters—on their South Carolina farm. Despite his struggles in carpentry, particularly in crafting rocking chairs, he manages his land with free servants. His eldest son, Gabriel, played by Heath Ledger, is deeply engrossed in the ongoing Revolutionary War. While Benjamin remains skeptical about warfare, Gabriel’s fervor leads him to enlist in the Continental army, driven by a sense of duty.

When a congress assembles in Charleston to discuss South Carolina’s involvement in the war, Benjamin warns against joining the conflict, but the majority favors war. Gabriel, with the support of Colonel Harry Burwell, a close friend of Benjamin’s, defies his father’s wishes and enlists. Over two subsequent years, Gabriel writes home about the brutal realities of war while his younger brother Thomas expresses his own yearning to join the fight. Though Benjamin forbids it, he promises Thomas he can enlist when he’s older.

Amidst escalating tensions, gunfire invades the Martin’s home one night, bringing Gabriel back unexpectedly. As Benjamin tends to his wounded son and other injured soldiers, disaster strikes when Colonel William Tavington and his Dragoons arrive, accusing the Martins of harboring the enemy. Despite Benjamin’s pleas for mercy, Tavington ruthlessly executes Thomas in front of Benjamin and sets their home ablaze, leaving the family shattered and distraught.

Surging with rage and grief, Benjamin retrieves his rifles and tomahawk from the remains of his home and prepares to retaliate with his remaining sons, Nathan and Samuel. Determined to protect his family, he devises an ambush against the British convoy, employing guerrilla tactics to inflict chaos and vengeance upon Tavington’s troops. This marks the transformation of Benjamin into a fierce leader, earning the nickname “the ghost” among the British.

As Benjamin and Gabriel navigate through war-torn territories, they encounter various allies, including the spirited Anne Howard, portrayed by Lisa Brenner, who inspires Gabriel to rally troops. With the help of the French officer Jean Villeneuve and old friends, Benjamin builds a formidable militia to combat the British forces. Their successes lead to substantial victories, but the toll of war continues to haunt them.

During a heart-wrenching series of events, Tavington retaliates by burning Charlotte’s plantation, where the Martin family temporarily seeks refuge. In a devastating turn, Gabriel is killed while seeking revenge against Tavington, plunging Benjamin into a deep despair and guilt over his son’s fate. Nevertheless, urged by friends and the need for vengeance, Benjamin rises once more to lead his troops in a pivotal battle.

The film culminates in a fierce confrontation between Benjamin and Tavington during a decisive battle at Cowpens. With the odds against him, Benjamin’s spirit reignites as he fights to avenge his sons and secure freedom for his family. In the ultimate showdown, he defeats Tavington, showcasing the resilience and bravery of a father forged by the flames of war.

As the dust settles, Benjamin reflects on the triumph of the Continental forces, culminating in the British surrender at Yorktown. He returns to his family, hopeful for a new beginning, ready to rebuild their lives amidst the remnants of conflict. The legacy of sacrifice and courage remains etched in their journey towards freedom.