The Army of George Washington, 1775–1783: History, Organization and Uniforms

The Continental Army’s evolution from ragtag militias to a capable force reshaped the American struggle for independence and British colonial power.The American War of Independence was one of the most significant wars of the Early Modern period and certainly one of the greatest military upsets, with George Washington’s rebel army humbling the might of the British Empire. When revolt broke out, the thirteen colonies were dependent on ragtag local militias. These enjoyed some early successes in small-scale engagements through their hit-and-run tactics but the need for a regular army capable of standing up to the British forces in conventional engagements was soon realized. Thus was born the Continental Army which, by learning from its many defeats and with the help of its allies, would eventually march and fight its way to victory.Gabriele Esposito examines all the forces employed by the American rebels, detailing their organization, uniforms and the tactics that they employed to resist the might of the British Empire. This is the army that fought at such famous battles as Lexington, Princeton, Bunker Hill, Guildford Courthouse and Yorktown. The beautiful uniforms of the period are illustrated by dozens of colour artworks. Read more