Patriot victory in the American Revolution was never assured. Many citizens, leaders, soldiers, and observers thought it improbable. Yet, General George Washington and his forces prevailed.
Michael F. Shaughnessy interviews historian Donald Elder regarding 24 generals who served the Patriot cause under the leadership of General Washington. Some of these leaders had military experience in the armies and conflicts of Europe, but others had little or no previous experience at military leaders. Most, but not all of the generals, remained loyal to the Patriot cause.
Washington’s generals were a diverse group of leaders whose desire for the independence from British rule of the 13 American colonies was one of the few shared motivations for their service.
Among the leaders were farmers, a bookseller, mariners, business leaders, glory hunters, and plantation owners. Each one was unique and collectively their efforts helped secure the freedom desired by many people in the American colonies.
Among the generals discussed are leaders such as:
- Benedict Arnold
- John Glover
- Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben
- Francis “Swamp Fox” Marion
- Daniel Morgan
- Henry Knox
- Horatio Gates
Concise, informative, interesting, each interview provides a biographical sketch of one of George Washington’s most famous generals—each one, a remarkable person.
About the Authors:
Michael F. Shaughnessy, Ph.D. is a professor of educational studies at Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, New York, two master’s degrees, and a doctorate from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He has edited, co-edited and written approximately 30 books and more than 500 articles, research pieces, and book reviews.
Donald Elder, Ph.D., is professor of history and chair of the History Department at Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico. His undergraduate degree in history is from the University of Northern Iowa. He received the M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of California, San Diego. He began his history career as a historian of the American Space Program and currently concentrates his research efforts on the American Civil War. He is the author and editor of numerous books and articles.
