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Pre-Revolution Timeline - The 1770s
The people were getting tired of the overarching rules, regulations, and taxes of the British Crown, perhaps no more so than in Boston where a massacre would occur. So a Tea Party would be held, declarations and Congresses made, then a war with shots ringing out from Princeton to Saratoga to Yorktown. But it would take much longer than this one decade to win that war and to form a true government. The American Revolution would seep into the next decade and the first President not in office til after that.
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Timeline
1778 Detail
February 5, 1778 - Friedrich von Steuben of the Prussian Army meets with the Continental Congress in York, Pennsylvania. They direct him to join General George Washington at the winter encampment at Valley Forge to drill the Continental Army into an effective fighting unit while the British retain control of Philadelphia, only twenty miles away. South Carolina also becomes the first state to ratify the Articles of Confederation.
The battles of the American Revolution in the first three years of the war had been a myriad of losses around a few notable victories, whether Fort Ticonderoga, Moore's Creek, the Battle of Princecton, Saratoga, or a few others. However, the nature of the Continental Army to this point being essentially farmers and huntsmen from local militias or state militias, all with different, and mostly haphazard Napoleanic tactics, often gave each battle that haphazard and uncoordinated strategy. At times they were as impressive as their opponent; other times, often in the same battle, it was the opposite. Washington's Army had marched into the winter encampment at Valley Forge on December 19, 1777. They were cold, hungry, and subject to getting disease from unsanitary conditions, actually brought on, in part, by the warmer than normal winter for southeastern Pennsylvania. Once they made it to spring, men returned from their homes, the sick who did not die recovered, and a newly trained army would be necessary to go forward and win the American Revolution.
But how would they do that? Yes, it would be unconventional. There was a non-descript, not very well thought of in his own Army, Prussian Captain Friedrich von Steuben, who wanted to come to the United States and fight, wanting a commission as Major General. The Prussian Army itself was thought of highly, even if von Steuben was lesser in rank. He was a veteran of European conflicts, had joined the Army at seventeen, and rose to the position of Aide-de-camp to Frederick the Great. But Washington did not fully realize may have been the Godsend that his Continental Army needed. Friedrich Wilhelm August Heinrich Ferdinand Baron de Steuben would be that man.
Von Steuben had been working in administrative capacities in France for over ten years after he was discharged from the Prussian Army due to the relative peace of the era in Europe. However, he wanted a military position, and it did not matter to him whether it was British, French, Austrian, or American. Plus, he was broke. After an introduction to Silas Deane and Benjamin Franklin in France, in which they could not offer him a high position due the former ambassadorian practice of doing just that, von Steuben would have to go to the United States as a volunteer. The Prussian was not pleased, but eventually accepted that lot with free paid passage by the French government.
On December 1, 1777, he arrived in Newport, Rhode Island with his dog and two subordinates. After a misunderstanding about who they were; the red uniforms did not help as they suggested British officers, he traveled to York, Pennsylvania, where the Continential Congress was now meeting after the British had taken over Philadelphia several months earlier. It was February 5, 1778. He gave Congress his letter of introduction from Benjamin Franklin, which had mistakenly stated his position as "His Excellency, Lieutenant General von Steuben, Apostle of Frederick the Great." But yes, he was only a captain. However, as politics goes, from the beginning of the nation to today, the mistake was not corrected.
From von Steuben's perspective, he was surprised at how small the Congress was, only two dozen men attempting to rule a country just born and not yet secured. He arrived at Valley Forge on February 23, 1778, and met with General George Washington. From Washington's perspective, he was impressed by the Prussian's sincerity, plus words from a message von Steuben had sent before their meeting, ..."
"Honorable Sir, The inclosed Copy of a Letter whose Original I Shall have the honor to present to your Excellency, will instruct you of the motives that brought me over to this Land. I shall add only to it that the Object of my greatest Ambition is to render your Country all the Services in my Power, and to deserve the title of a Citizen of America by fighting for the Cause of your Liberty.
If the distinguished Ranks I have Served in in Europe Should be an Obstacle, I had rather Serve under Your Excellency as a Volunteer, than to be a Subject of Discontent to Such deserving Officers as have already distinguished themselves amongst you.
Such being the Sentiments I always profest, I dare hope that the respectable Congress of the United States of America, will accept my Services. I could Say moreover (Were it not for the fear of offending your Modesty) that your Excellency is the only Person under whom (after having Served under the King of Prussia) I could wish to pursue an Art to which I have Wholly given up my Self.
I intend to go to Boston in a few Days where I shall present my Letters to the Honble John Hancock Esqr. Member of Congress, and there I shall wait for your Excellency's Orders, according to which I shall take convenient Measures. I have the honor to be with respect Honorable Sir Your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant" Friedrich von Steuben to General George Washington, December 6, 1777.
Friedrich von Steuben, captain from the Prussian Army, was made Inspector General, taking over from Major General Thomas Conway, who was attempting to have Washington removed. The Prussian spoke bare English. His pay would be according to his worth in the war. First task, inspect the army and its supplies; they were shy of most. He would start to write the first orders of drill; this eventual booklet would become the Blue Book known as "Regulation for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States," and was used until 1814. Much of what was wrote is still part of the basis for training and tactics in the American Army.
General von Steuben at Valley Forge
After making quick work on his instruction tactics, von Steuben took the men to the field. Through translators, one his secretary Duponceau and the other Alexander Hamilton, he barked his orders with European sternness, reforming the ranks with uniform commands, tactics, the use of the bayonet, amid constant military drill. He used a model company of one hundred and twenty men for first drill derived from each brigade in the encampment, then transferred what they learned to the other men through sub-inspectors. This occurred in what is now known as the Grand Parade, which holds his statue on the hill above it. This was so different from the men were used to before.
"Each colonel exercised his regiment according to his own ideas, or those of any military author that might have fallen into his hands ... march and maneuvering step was as varied as the color of our uniforms," General von Steuben. "With regard to military discipline, I may safely say that no such thing existed in the Continental Army."
"You say to your soldier, 'Do this, and he does it. But I am obliged to say to the American, 'This is why you ought to do this' and then he does it," General von Steuben.
The men of the Continental Army liked the way the Prussian drilled, fast and with purpose. With Nathaniel Greene now quartermaster and von Steuben providing discipline and order, the Continental Army began to look like a trained Army. When General Washington reviewed the troops on May 5, 1778 during a Military Parade to honor France recognizing the United States as a sovereign nation and offering their assistance, he was very pleased.
Minute Walk in History
Steuben Parade Ground Trail
It's a great history walk on one of the newer trails and perfect for fall or spring (not much tree cover). You'll be walking over the training ground of General von Steuben as he got the Continental Army drilled to fight. An extra bonus, you'll be walking over a long filled limestone quarry where archaeologists found a limestone pit, they won't tell you the location, where prehistoric bears twice the size of one today, tigers, and other creatures were found, and are now on display at the Visitor Center and other natural museums. Yes, lions, tigers, and bears, plus the American Revolution, oh, my.
Quotes about What Others Thought of the General
"I have written to Bro Gerry by the Baron De Steuben whome I strongly recommend to the Notice of my worthy Colleagues & others. Mr Gerry will shew you my Letter, which makes it needless for me to add further than that from the recommendary Letters of Dr Franklin & other papers wch I have seen & the Conversation I have had with the Baron, I really esteem him a modest candid & sensible Gentn. The Dr says he is spoken highly of to him by two of the best Judges of military merit in France, tho he is not him self a Frenchman but a Prussian," Samuel Adams.
"... of the ancient fabled God of War ... he seemed to me a perfect personification of Mars. The trappings of his horse, the enormous holsters of his pistols, his large size, and his strikingly martial aspect, all seemed to favor the idea," Continental Army soldier upon first impression of von Steuben at Valley Forge.
"Discipline fourishes and daily improves under the indefatigable efforts of Baron Steuben - who is much esteemed by us," Lt. Colonel Alexander Scammell, Continental Army.
"This is the last Letter I shall ever write while I continue in the service of my Country - the hour of my resignation is fixed at twelve this day - after which I shall become a private Citizen on the Banks of the Potomack, where I shall be glad to embrace you, and to testify the great esteem and consideration with which I am - my dear Baron, yr most obedt & affect. Servant," George Washington in letter to General von Steuben, December 23, 1783.
The Prussian General, therefore, was not only integral in the training of the Continental Army into a focused fighting force, but remained essential to its success. General Friedrich von Steuben led one of three divisions in the Battle of Yorktown. After the war, he was made a citizen of the United States of America through an act of Congress.
Image above: Drawing of General Friedrich von Steuben drilling the troops, 1907, A.J. Heaton, Fishel, Adler & Schwartz. Courtesy Library of Congress. Image below: Statue of Prussian General Friedrich von Steuben and the Parade Ground at Valley Forge National Historical Park, America's Best History. Info Source: "General von Steuben," National Park Service; "Baron von Steuben credited with shaping up Continental Army," 2008, Jim McClure, York Daily Record; "Patriot General von Steuben," Mount Gulian Historic Site; "Baron von Steuben," Mary Stockwell, mountvernon.org; "The Impact of General von Steuben," 2013, Michael Schellhammer, Journal of the Americcan Revolution; azquotes.com; founders.archives.gov; msa.maryland.gov; "The Papers of George Washington," George Washington, Virginia.edu, Library of Congress; kwize.com; Wikipedia Commons.
Back to Index
History Photo Bomb
Drawing of the Boston Massacre, March 5, 1770.
ABH Travel Tip
The bargains at the National Park Service continue, despite some recent increases in park fees. The National Park Pass is now called the America the Beautiful Pass, which admits all vehicle and family visitors for one year, and costs $80 for one twelve month period. The pass covers most Federal fee areas, including National Parks, Historic Sites, and National Forests. For those of 62 years of age or older, buy the America the Beautiful Senior Pass. For only $20 per year or $80 for a lifetime pass, you gain free
entrance for the rest of your life to all National Parks, National Historic Sites, and National Forests, and other federal fee sites for you, your spouse, and your children, plus discounts of 50% on some use fees, such as camping. Must be purchased in person at a National Fee location, which are the one hundred or so National Park Service sites that charge for entry.
Paul Revere on his ride to Concord to warn the patriots that
the British were coming. Courtesy National Archives.
Timeline Book
George Washington talking to his men outside the log huts at
his encampment in Valley Forge. Courtesy National Archives.
Military History
Check Out This Interesting
Website suggested by students at Green Mountain
Central School District in Vermont, Understanding Our Military Branches
But how would they do that? Yes, it would be unconventional. There was a non-descript, not very well thought of in his own Army, Prussian Captain Friedrich von Steuben, who wanted to come to the United States and fight, wanting a commission as Major General. The Prussian Army itself was thought of highly, even if von Steuben was lesser in rank. He was a veteran of European conflicts, had joined the Army at seventeen, and rose to the position of Aide-de-camp to Frederick the Great. But Washington did not fully realize may have been the Godsend that his Continental Army needed. Friedrich Wilhelm August Heinrich Ferdinand Baron de Steuben would be that man.
Von Steuben had been working in administrative capacities in France for over ten years after he was discharged from the Prussian Army due to the relative peace of the era in Europe. However, he wanted a military position, and it did not matter to him whether it was British, French, Austrian, or American. Plus, he was broke. After an introduction to Silas Deane and Benjamin Franklin in France, in which they could not offer him a high position due the former ambassadorian practice of doing just that, von Steuben would have to go to the United States as a volunteer. The Prussian was not pleased, but eventually accepted that lot with free paid passage by the French government.
On December 1, 1777, he arrived in Newport, Rhode Island with his dog and two subordinates. After a misunderstanding about who they were; the red uniforms did not help as they suggested British officers, he traveled to York, Pennsylvania, where the Continential Congress was now meeting after the British had taken over Philadelphia several months earlier. It was February 5, 1778. He gave Congress his letter of introduction from Benjamin Franklin, which had mistakenly stated his position as "His Excellency, Lieutenant General von Steuben, Apostle of Frederick the Great." But yes, he was only a captain. However, as politics goes, from the beginning of the nation to today, the mistake was not corrected.
From von Steuben's perspective, he was surprised at how small the Congress was, only two dozen men attempting to rule a country just born and not yet secured. He arrived at Valley Forge on February 23, 1778, and met with General George Washington. From Washington's perspective, he was impressed by the Prussian's sincerity, plus words from a message von Steuben had sent before their meeting, ..."
If the distinguished Ranks I have Served in in Europe Should be an Obstacle, I had rather Serve under Your Excellency as a Volunteer, than to be a Subject of Discontent to Such deserving Officers as have already distinguished themselves amongst you.
Such being the Sentiments I always profest, I dare hope that the respectable Congress of the United States of America, will accept my Services. I could Say moreover (Were it not for the fear of offending your Modesty) that your Excellency is the only Person under whom (after having Served under the King of Prussia) I could wish to pursue an Art to which I have Wholly given up my Self.
I intend to go to Boston in a few Days where I shall present my Letters to the Honble John Hancock Esqr. Member of Congress, and there I shall wait for your Excellency's Orders, according to which I shall take convenient Measures. I have the honor to be with respect Honorable Sir Your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant" Friedrich von Steuben to General George Washington, December 6, 1777.
Friedrich von Steuben, captain from the Prussian Army, was made Inspector General, taking over from Major General Thomas Conway, who was attempting to have Washington removed. The Prussian spoke bare English. His pay would be according to his worth in the war. First task, inspect the army and its supplies; they were shy of most. He would start to write the first orders of drill; this eventual booklet would become the Blue Book known as "Regulation for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States," and was used until 1814. Much of what was wrote is still part of the basis for training and tactics in the American Army.
"You say to your soldier, 'Do this, and he does it. But I am obliged to say to the American, 'This is why you ought to do this' and then he does it," General von Steuben.
The men of the Continental Army liked the way the Prussian drilled, fast and with purpose. With Nathaniel Greene now quartermaster and von Steuben providing discipline and order, the Continental Army began to look like a trained Army. When General Washington reviewed the troops on May 5, 1778 during a Military Parade to honor France recognizing the United States as a sovereign nation and offering their assistance, he was very pleased.
Minute Walk in History
Steuben Parade Ground Trail
Quotes about What Others Thought of the General
"I have written to Bro Gerry by the Baron De Steuben whome I strongly recommend to the Notice of my worthy Colleagues & others. Mr Gerry will shew you my Letter, which makes it needless for me to add further than that from the recommendary Letters of Dr Franklin & other papers wch I have seen & the Conversation I have had with the Baron, I really esteem him a modest candid & sensible Gentn. The Dr says he is spoken highly of to him by two of the best Judges of military merit in France, tho he is not him self a Frenchman but a Prussian," Samuel Adams.
"... of the ancient fabled God of War ... he seemed to me a perfect personification of Mars. The trappings of his horse, the enormous holsters of his pistols, his large size, and his strikingly martial aspect, all seemed to favor the idea," Continental Army soldier upon first impression of von Steuben at Valley Forge.
"Discipline fourishes and daily improves under the indefatigable efforts of Baron Steuben - who is much esteemed by us," Lt. Colonel Alexander Scammell, Continental Army.
"This is the last Letter I shall ever write while I continue in the service of my Country - the hour of my resignation is fixed at twelve this day - after which I shall become a private Citizen on the Banks of the Potomack, where I shall be glad to embrace you, and to testify the great esteem and consideration with which I am - my dear Baron, yr most obedt & affect. Servant," George Washington in letter to General von Steuben, December 23, 1783.
The Prussian General, therefore, was not only integral in the training of the Continental Army into a focused fighting force, but remained essential to its success. General Friedrich von Steuben led one of three divisions in the Battle of Yorktown. After the war, he was made a citizen of the United States of America through an act of Congress.
Image above: Drawing of General Friedrich von Steuben drilling the troops, 1907, A.J. Heaton, Fishel, Adler & Schwartz. Courtesy Library of Congress. Image below: Statue of Prussian General Friedrich von Steuben and the Parade Ground at Valley Forge National Historical Park, America's Best History. Info Source: "General von Steuben," National Park Service; "Baron von Steuben credited with shaping up Continental Army," 2008, Jim McClure, York Daily Record; "Patriot General von Steuben," Mount Gulian Historic Site; "Baron von Steuben," Mary Stockwell, mountvernon.org; "The Impact of General von Steuben," 2013, Michael Schellhammer, Journal of the Americcan Revolution; azquotes.com; founders.archives.gov; msa.maryland.gov; "The Papers of George Washington," George Washington, Virginia.edu, Library of Congress; kwize.com; Wikipedia Commons.
Back to Index
History Photo Bomb
Drawing of the Boston Massacre, March 5, 1770.
ABH Travel Tip
The bargains at the National Park Service continue, despite some recent increases in park fees. The National Park Pass is now called the America the Beautiful Pass, which admits all vehicle and family visitors for one year, and costs $80 for one twelve month period. The pass covers most Federal fee areas, including National Parks, Historic Sites, and National Forests. For those of 62 years of age or older, buy the America the Beautiful Senior Pass. For only $20 per year or $80 for a lifetime pass, you gain free
entrance for the rest of your life to all National Parks, National Historic Sites, and National Forests, and other federal fee sites for you, your spouse, and your children, plus discounts of 50% on some use fees, such as camping. Must be purchased in person at a National Fee location, which are the one hundred or so National Park Service sites that charge for entry.
Paul Revere on his ride to Concord to warn the patriots that
the British were coming. Courtesy National Archives.
Timeline Book
George Washington talking to his men outside the log huts at
his encampment in Valley Forge. Courtesy National Archives.
Military History
Check Out This Interesting
Website suggested by students at Green Mountain
Central School District in Vermont, Understanding Our Military Branches
"... of the ancient fabled God of War ... he seemed to me a perfect personification of Mars. The trappings of his horse, the enormous holsters of his pistols, his large size, and his strikingly martial aspect, all seemed to favor the idea," Continental Army soldier upon first impression of von Steuben at Valley Forge.
"Discipline fourishes and daily improves under the indefatigable efforts of Baron Steuben - who is much esteemed by us," Lt. Colonel Alexander Scammell, Continental Army.
"This is the last Letter I shall ever write while I continue in the service of my Country - the hour of my resignation is fixed at twelve this day - after which I shall become a private Citizen on the Banks of the Potomack, where I shall be glad to embrace you, and to testify the great esteem and consideration with which I am - my dear Baron, yr most obedt & affect. Servant," George Washington in letter to General von Steuben, December 23, 1783.
The Prussian General, therefore, was not only integral in the training of the Continental Army into a focused fighting force, but remained essential to its success. General Friedrich von Steuben led one of three divisions in the Battle of Yorktown. After the war, he was made a citizen of the United States of America through an act of Congress.
Image above: Drawing of General Friedrich von Steuben drilling the troops, 1907, A.J. Heaton, Fishel, Adler & Schwartz. Courtesy Library of Congress. Image below: Statue of Prussian General Friedrich von Steuben and the Parade Ground at Valley Forge National Historical Park, America's Best History. Info Source: "General von Steuben," National Park Service; "Baron von Steuben credited with shaping up Continental Army," 2008, Jim McClure, York Daily Record; "Patriot General von Steuben," Mount Gulian Historic Site; "Baron von Steuben," Mary Stockwell, mountvernon.org; "The Impact of General von Steuben," 2013, Michael Schellhammer, Journal of the Americcan Revolution; azquotes.com; founders.archives.gov; msa.maryland.gov; "The Papers of George Washington," George Washington, Virginia.edu, Library of Congress; kwize.com; Wikipedia Commons.
Back to Index
History Photo Bomb
Drawing of the Boston Massacre, March 5, 1770.
ABH Travel Tip
The bargains at the National Park Service continue, despite some recent increases in park fees. The National Park Pass is now called the America the Beautiful Pass, which admits all vehicle and family visitors for one year, and costs $80 for one twelve month period. The pass covers most Federal fee areas, including National Parks, Historic Sites, and National Forests. For those of 62 years of age or older, buy the America the Beautiful Senior Pass. For only $20 per year or $80 for a lifetime pass, you gain free
entrance for the rest of your life to all National Parks, National Historic Sites, and National Forests, and other federal fee sites for you, your spouse, and your children, plus discounts of 50% on some use fees, such as camping. Must be purchased in person at a National Fee location, which are the one hundred or so National Park Service sites that charge for entry.
Paul Revere on his ride to Concord to warn the patriots that
the British were coming. Courtesy National Archives.
Timeline Book
George Washington talking to his men outside the log huts at
his encampment in Valley Forge. Courtesy National Archives.
Military History
Check Out This Interesting
Website suggested by students at Green Mountain
Central School District in Vermont, Understanding Our Military Branches