American Guerrilla - Friends of the King and Enemies of the Crown

In their very first conflict as an independent people, the Americans displayed impressive prowess in guerrilla warfare. The contribution made by American guerrillas to the climactic events of the War of Independence, especially the bagging of Cornwallis at Yorktown, was substantial, even essential. Yet for some reason, their story remains little known. In addition, the war suggests, across more than two centuries, certain fundamental difficulties impeding even great powers when they confront a major guerrilla challenge. The American struggle for independence from Britain had its origins above all in a key factor the destruction of the French and Indian menace in North America.

This eight-week course will explore the irregular warfare that plagued the American colonies beginning with the French & Indian War and into the American Revolution. Areas of focus: The Frontier of New York & Canada, North and South Carolina with Georgia included.