The Hessians and the Other German Auxiliaries of Great Britain in the Revolutionary War

Recruitment and Training

The German auxiliaries who fought in the Revolutionary War were recruited from a variety of German states. The largest contingent came from the state of Hesse-Kassel, but there were also significant numbers from Brunswick, Hesse-Darmstadt, and other states. The recruits were typically young men from poor families who were looking for a way to improve their lot in life. They were often lured by promises of land and money, and they were given a basic military training before being sent to America.

Deployment and Combat

The German auxiliaries arrived in America in 1776, and they quickly saw action in the Battle of Long Island. They also fought in the battles of Trenton, Princeton, and Saratoga. The Hessians were known for their discipline and their ferocity in battle. They were also feared by the Americans because of their reputation for brutality. The Hessians and the Other German Auxiliaries of Great Britain in the Revolutionary War provides a detailed account of the German auxiliaries' combat experiences in North America.

Impact on the War

The German auxiliaries played a significant role in the Revolutionary War, although their exact significance is still debated. Some scholars believe that they were essential to the British victory at the Battle of Long Island, while others believe that they had little impact on the overall outcome of the war. The book examines the evidence for both sides of the argument, and it provides a balanced assessment of the German auxiliaries' impact on the war.

The Hessians and the Other German Auxiliaries of Great Britain in the Revolutionary War is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of the American Revolution. It is also a fascinating read for anyone interested in the history of Germany or the military history of the 18th century.