Washington Irving (1783-1859) The story“Rip Van Winkle”is set before and after the American Revolution.The protagonist falls asleep in the mountain and wakes up to discover shocking changes:the American has taken place. Washington Irving（1783-1859） The story “Rip Van Winkle” is set before and after the American Revolution. The protagonist falls asleep in the mountain and wakes up to discover shocking changes: the American has taken place