American Revolution: Who were the Redcoats?

2024-04-08

The British Army of the American revolution. Like most British armies throughout history, they were over-stretched, under resourced and fighting thousands of miles from home against a tough and determined enemy. But what do we really know about these men in the red coats? Were they the proverbial scum of the earth? Was the army their only option to avoid the gutter? Where were they from and how long did had they served? And what about the officers? Were they “foppish d...

The British Army of the American revolution.

Like most British armies throughout history, they were over-stretched, under resourced and fighting thousands of miles from home against a tough and determined enemy.

But what do we really know about these men in the red coats?

Were they the proverbial scum of the earth?

Was the army their only option to avoid the gutter?

Where were they from and how long did had they served?

And what about the officers? Were they “foppish dandies, or oafish brutes”? Or were they well-motivated and experienced soldiers doing the best for their men?

Well today I am joined by author and historian Robbie MacNiven to discover the answers to all of these questions and more.

Robbie has written a book about the 33rd Foot on campaign during the revolution - it’s called the Pattern and I’ve posted a link below.

https://amzn.to/4cH2WLo

If you want to support me then please sign up for my mailing list here - https://redcoathistory.com/newsletter/

Comments (3)