Continental Soldier vs Hessian Soldier

This illustrated study reveals the crucial roles played by German troops and commanders fighting on both sides during the American Revolution.

During the American Revolutionary War, the British Crown deployed hired German troops in its efforts to defeat the Patriots. Facing a steep learning curve, the newly established Continental Army—some of the soldiers in its ranks also German-speakers, notably those from Pennsylvania—faced these stolid regulars hailing from Hessen-Cassel, Braunschweig, and other German principalities. In this fully illustrated account, Robbie MacNiven assesses both sides’ combat effectiveness during three critical months of fighting in late 1776.

At White Plains, New York (October 28, 1776), Hessian troops spearheaded a Crown Forces attack on Continental forces; the disciplined Germans turned the Patriot flank and forced the Continentals to withdraw in good order. At Fort Washington, New York (November 16, 1776), the Crown Forces inflicted a demoralising defeat on their opponents, with the Hessians taking the surrender of the Continental garrison. At Trenton, New Jersey (December 26, 1776), the Continentals crossed the Delaware and surprised and defeated a complacent Hessian garrison consisting of three regiments.

Featuring archive illustrations, specially commissioned artwork, and full-colour mapping, Continental Soldier vs Hessian Soldier exposes the gruelling impact of the American Revolutionary War on both sides’ forces.