Subject
United States -- History -- Revolution, 1775-1783 -- Participation, German Books
Best books
Edward J. (Edward Jackson) Lowell
Die Hessen und die andern deutschen Hilfstruppen im Kriege gross-britanniens gegen Amerika, 1776-1783
"Die Hessen und die andern deutschen Hilfstruppen im Kriege Gross-Britanniens gegen Amerika 1776-1783" by Edward J. Lowell is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the role of German auxiliary troops, commonly known as the Hessians, who fought for Great Britain during the American Revolutionary War. It aims to provide a detailed examination of their involvement, the circumstances surrounding their recruitment, and the socio-political context of the time. The opening of the book introduces the context of German princes who supplied troops to Britain during the American Revolution, highlighting their motivations and the systemic practice of selling soldiers as mercenaries. It discusses the historical background of the region, particularly the state of Hessen-Cassel and its landgrave, Friedrich II, who played a significant role in this trade. Through discussions of contracts and the political atmosphere in 18th-century Germany, the author seeks to debunk myths surrounding these soldiers while offering insight into their experiences and the societal conditions that led to their deployment in America.
Friedrich Kapp
Der Soldatenhandel deutscher Fürsten nach Amerika
"Der Soldatenhandel deutscher Fürsten nach Amerika" by Friedrich Kapp is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work explores the controversial recruitment practices of German princes who sold their soldiers as mercenaries to foreign powers, particularly during the 18th century. Kapp addresses themes of national disgrace and the implications of such practices on the identity and honor of the German people. The opening of the text establishes the author’s intention to shed light on a dark chapter of German history, detailing the morally questionable trade of soldiers by German princes for financial gain. Kapp shares a personal reflection on the state of Germany a decade prior, when the soldier trade was viewed as a national shame, and contrasts it with the contemporary political climate. He foreshadows a thorough examination of the historical context of mercenary warfare in Germany, beginning with the evolution of soldier recruitment practices and the socio-political conditions that permitted such trades, setting the stage for deeper exploration of specific examples in subsequent chapters.
Albert Pfister
The Voyage of The First Hessian Army from Portsmouth to New York, 1776
"The Voyage of The First Hessian Army from Portsmouth to New York, 1776" by Pfister et al. is a historical account produced in the early 20th century. This book details the arduous journey undertaken by the first Hessian division during the American Revolutionary War, highlighting both the logistical challenges and the human experiences of the soldiers aboard the fleet. It captures a pivotal moment in history, focusing on a specific military expedition orchestrated by the British forces in their campaign against the American revolutionaries. The narrative unfolds the journey of approximately 12,500 troops, particularly focusing on the Hessians, as they embark on a long and treacherous voyage across the Atlantic. The book recounts the numerous adversities faced at sea, including severe storms, illness, and the perils of shipboard life, such as poor provisions and cramped conditions. Key events, such as encounters with other vessels, internal conflicts, and the eventual reunion with British forces, illustrate the turbulent nature of their expedition. Through vivid descriptions and accounts, particularly the diary excerpts from J. G. Seume, the reader gains insight into the perspectives of both military leaders and ordinary soldiers, highlighting their struggles, faith, and the broader implications of their mission in the unfolding American conflict.
J. G. (Joseph George) Rosengarten
A Defence of the Hessians
"A Defence of the Hessians" by J. G. Rosengarten is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book serves as a defense of the Hessian soldiers who served under the British flag during the American Revolutionary War, countering the negative perceptions and accusations against them that arose following their involvement in the conflict. Rosengarten aims to provide a more balanced view of their service and the political context surrounding it. In this comprehensive pamphlet, Rosengarten discusses the complex historical relationships between Hesse, England, and the broader context of the Seven Years' War, which set the stage for Hessian involvement in America. He narrates the history of Hesse’s military alliances, the motivations of the Elector Frederick, and the criticisms leveled against him for allegedly "selling" soldiers. Throughout the text, Rosengarten offers extensive evidence from historical records to refute claims of forced enlistments and emphasizes that the Hessian soldiers volunteered for service, enjoying favorable conditions and compensation. By focusing on the loyalty of the Hessians to England and their previous military solidarity, Rosengarten ultimately argues that their actions during the American Revolution are unjustly vilified.
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