15 Military Leaders of the American Revolution

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Harrison W. Mark
by
published on 15 August 2024

The American Revolutionary War (1775-1783) was intially a rebellion carried out by the Thirteen Colonies of British America against Great Britain, sparked by the issue of taxation without representation. It soon blossomed into a War of Independence, resulting in the birth of the United States of America. The outcome of the war was largely influenced by the generals who conducted it.

This collection looks at the lives and times of 15 military leaders of the American Revolution, including figures from the American, French, and British armies. It is by no means a comprehensive list, but contains many of the most significant figures of the conflict, detailing their campaigns and battles, victories and defeats, rises and downfalls. Of these 15 officers and generals, some perservered through the sheer forcefulness of their personalities, overcoming all obstacles to achieve victory and acclaim. Others had their reputations and careers destroyed by their roles in the war, and spent the rest of their lives trying to shift the blame to others. Some of these men ended up as presidents or great statesmen, while others ended up destitute and forgotten. All of them played significant roles in the birth of the United States, and any student of the American Revolution should become acquainted with them in order to have a better understanding of the topic.

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Questions & Answers

Who led the British Army during the American Revolution?

During the American Revolution, several men served as commander-in-chief of the British Army. This included Gen. Thomas Gage (1775); Sir William Howe (1775-1778); Sir Henry Clinton (1778-1782); and Sir Guy Carleton (1782-1783).

Who led the Continental Army during the American Revolution?

George Washington served as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army in the American Revolution, although several other generals held independent commands, including Horatio Gates, Nathanael Greene, Benjamin Lincoln, Richard Montgomery, and others.

Which American general was considered the Hero of Saratoga?

Gen. Horatio Gates was considered the Hero of Saratoga for his victory there, but soon lost his reputation after his catastrophic defeat at the Battle of Camden.
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About the Author

Harrison W. Mark
Harrison Mark is a graduate of SUNY Oswego, where he studied history and political science.

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