Subject
United States -- History -- War of 1812 -- Prisoners and prisons Books
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Arthur Griffiths
Non-Criminal Prisons English Debtor's Prisons and Prisons of War; French War Prisons; American War Prisons with References to Those of Other Lands
"Non-Criminal Prisons" by Arthur Griffiths is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the nature and treatment of prisoners in various types of non-criminal prisons, including English debtor’s prisons and military detainment facilities throughout history. Griffiths delves into the treatment of individuals confined, often unjustly, for debts or as prisoners of war, highlighting the inherent cruelty and societal implications of such practices. The opening of the work presents an introduction to the concept of non-criminal imprisonment, discussing the historical context in which individuals who had committed no real crime were confined. Griffiths tackles the harsh realities faced by debtors and prisoners of war, detailing how systems were manipulated for financial gain. He reflects on the injustices perpetrated by creditors and the inhumane conditions endured by those incarcerated, providing a critique of the legal systems that allowed such abuses to persist. The author sets the stage for a detailed exploration of specific infamous prisons, their management misdeeds, and the wider societal ramifications of these injustices throughout history.
C. (Charles) Andrews
The prisoners' memoirs, or, Dartmoor prison : $b containing a complete and impartial history of the entire captivity of the Americans in England, from the commencement of the last war between the United States and Great Britain, until all prisoners were released by the treaty of Ghent. Also a particular detail of all occurrences relative to the horrid massacre at Dartmoor, on the fatal evening of the 6th of April, 1815.
"The Prisoners' Memoirs, or Dartmoor Prison" by an unnamed author is a historical account written in the early mid-19th century. The work serves as a profound narrative detailing the harrowing experiences of American prisoners held during the War of 1812 in Dartmoor Prison, highlighting their struggles for survival, the brutal conditions of confinement, and the stark difference in treatment received compared to their French counterparts. Through the perspective of a survivor, readers are invited to witness the depths of human suffering and resilience under oppressive circumstances. The opening of the memoir illustrates the historical context of the War of 1812 and the initial capture of American sailors, who found themselves confined in various English prisons. As the narrative unfolds, the author vividly describes their transition to Dartmoor Prison, marked by overwhelming despair and inhumane conditions, characterized by inadequate sustenance, harsh weather, and the constant threat of violence, particularly highlighted by a massacre incident. The author’s poignant reflections provide insight into the psychological toll of imprisonment, the social dynamics among prisoners, and the desperation that drove some to enlist in the British service, painting a gripping picture of survival and the human spirit amid extreme adversity.
Benjamin Waterhouse
A journal, of a young man of Massachusetts, late a surgeon on board an American privateer, who was captured at sea by the British in May, eighteen hundred and thirteen and was confined first, at Melville Island, Halifax, then at Chatham, in England, and last at Dartmoor prison : $b Interspersed with observations, anecdotes and remarks, tending to illustrate the moral and political characters of three nations. To which is added, a correct engraving of Dartmoor prison, representing the massacre of American prisoners.
"A Journal of a Young Man of Massachusetts, late a Surgeon on board an American Privateer" is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The book chronicles the experiences of its author, a young surgeon from Massachusetts, who serves on an American privateer during the War of 1812, detailing his capture at sea by the British and subsequent imprisonment. Through his narrative, the author explores themes of national identity, the condition of prisoners of war, and the human cost of conflict. The opening of the journal sets the stage for the author's adventurous yet treacherous journey. He describes the initial excitement of joining a privateer sailing out of Salem with dreams of fortune, only to find himself in perilous situations, from navigating treacherous waters to encountering a British frigate. After enduring various challenges at sea, including a skirmish that leads to his capture, the narrative delves into the harsh realities of life in captivity, particularly at Melville Island and later Dartmoor Prison. The author notes the stark differences in treatment between American and British sailors, revealing a deep sense of resentment and commentary on the nature of British humanity versus American spirit, highlighting his profound emotional journey throughout his time as a prisoner of war.
William Atherton
Narrative of the Suffering & Defeat of the North-Western Army, Under General Winchester Massacre of the Prisoners; Sixteen Months Imprisonment of the Writer and Others with the Indians and British
"Narrative of the Suffering & Defeat of the North-Western Army Under General Winchester" by William Atherton is a historical account written in the early 19th century. It recounts the harrowing experiences of the North-Western Army, detailing their march from Kentucky to the heart of conflict in the early War of 1812, where they faced extreme hardships, battles with Native forces, and the aftermath of a catastrophic defeat. The narrative specifically highlights the challenges faced by the army during their campaign and the suffering endured by both soldiers and prisoners during this tumultuous time. The opening of the narrative introduces readers to the context of the North-Western Army’s mission as they gather in Georgetown before embarking on a journey fraught with danger. Atherton shares details of their initial movements, revealing the prevailing tension as they encounter various challenges while trying to reach Fort Wayne. He vividly describes an alarming night during which the soldiers prepared for an anticipated attack, detailing their nerves and the growing anxiety within the camp. This beginning lays the groundwork for the struggles and defeats that are to follow, emphasizing the bravery and resilience of the troops as they face starvation, harsh weather, and fierce enemy resistance, ultimately setting the stage for the narrative's overarching themes of suffering and sacrifice in the fight for American expansion and security.
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