Battle of Camden: Revolutionary War in the South
79Death of Baron DeKalb
The Americans March
The Battle of Camden was fought on August 16, 1780 and came about as a result of the British capture of Charlestown (Charleston), S.C. in May of 1780. Patriot resistance had nearly been extinguished in South Carolina by that battle and siege.
The surrender of that important town was followed up with the massacre of surrendering American troops at the Waxhaws, in the upper part of the state by Banastre Tarleton's cavalry. It was here he gained the moniker, "Bloody Ban" forever more in American history.
General George Washington sent fourteen hundred Continentals south under Baron DeKalb, a German officer, whose military talents and experience secured him the command of a major-general in the army of the United States.
On July the 6th he reached the Deep River, and halted at Cox's Mill to collect supplies, and determine on his future course. Here he was overtaken, and superseded in command, by General Horatio Gates, the victor of Saratoga.
The arrival of Gates increased the activity of this little army, without improving its condition any. Gates, unhappily, was one of those men whom success intoxicates and ultimately destroys.
He had no sooner arrived than he issued orders to his troops to hold themselves in readiness for marching, and on the 27th, the army was under tramp over a barren country to Monk's Ferry, S.C. in direct opposition to the counsel of all his officers.
The troops were without provisions and clothes, many without arms, and suffering from fatigue on their protracted march. Still, his army received militia reinforcements from Virginia and North Carolina, mostly lean and untried detachments, however.
With a little delay to permit more units and the procuring of more ammo and supplies, it might have been swollen to a very respectable force of four or five thousand men.
Certain of success, and pressing on with a quickness which was all this unfortunate general seemed to think was necessary for victory, he reached Clermont, S.C. near Camden where he encamped on August the 13th.
S.C. State Historical Marker
Forward to the Battlefield
At Clermont Gates was informed by Colonel Sumter of the advance of a considerable convoy of British wagons on the route from McCord's Ferry to Camden; and Gates was asked by Sumter for a small reinforcement to enable him to capture them.
Four hundred men were detached on this service; while General Gates put the army under marching orders to Camden, where the Brits maintained a strong post under the command of Lord Rawdon.
On the night of the 15th, at ten o'clock, the Americans moved from their encampment, little dreaming of the terrible fate which awaited them.
Gates was in ignorance of several facts which he might have known, but did not know, and which it was of infinite importance to his objectives that he should have known. He was ignorant of the fact that Lord Cornwallis had reached Camden from Charlestown, bringing with him a considerable detachment.
With a picked force of more than two thousand men, that enterprising commander took up his line of march from Camden to meet his enemy, at the very hour Gates left Clermont. The latter had given himself very little time to learn anything.
He committed a variety of blunders. He under-rated cavalry for example, most important in the level country through which he had to march and soon fight.
He hurried his men when they were fatigued, and commenced a night movement with the novice militia, in the face of an enemy, and with practically no vigilance. General Cornwallis, on the other hand, appears to have been accurately informed of every move of the Americans.
It is even in the history of the campaign that a spy sent from Cornwallis succeeded in passing himself off to Gates as a fugitive from Camden, and having won his confidence, made his escape back to the British with vital information.
The British Attack
First Blooding
In what can only be called a fatal state of security, the result of his own self delusion, Gates hurried his troops forward blindly to their doom. The armies felt each other at midnight.
The fire of the British advance, first announced to the Americans the presence of their foes.
The cavalry of Armand's Legion wheeled and fled at the first discharge, but the American infantry, under Colonel Porterfield, coolly returned the fire, and the march of the enemy was checked.
As if by tacit consent, the respective armies recoiled, and prepared to await the daylight for a resumption of the fight.
During the remainder of the night the first Maryland division, including the Delawares under DeKalb, were posted on the right; the Virginia militia, under Stevens, on the left; the North Carolinians, under Caswell, held the center; the artillery battery upon the road.
Both wings rested on swampy ground, and the second Maryland brigade was posted a few hundred yards in the rear of the first, to act as a reserve. The Brits were formed in a single line, with the wings covered and supported by bodies in reserve.
Americans Retreat
The Battle of Camden Commences
The battle began with the dawn of day. It was brought on by the advance of the American left on the British right, which had the appearance of being in some confusion.
The reception which the Virginians met proved this move to have been in error; they were quickly repulsed.
The Brits charged them with a cheer and they fled in the utmost confusion, many of them without even discharging their weapons.This shameful example was followed by the North Carolina militia, with the exception of one corps under Major Dixon.
The cavalry of Armand, which had behaved so poorly the night before, increased the panic by a second and irretrievable flight; and the Continentals stood alone, abandoned by the militia, and maintaining their ground against the entire force of the Royal army.
The artillery was also lost; the cavalry- a miserable excuse of a legion- were swallowed up in the woods- and the regular infantry, reduced to a mere spot on the field numbering but nine hundred men, were now compelled to bear the pressure-shock of over two thousand men.
But they resisted the pressure nobly, and their bayonets locking with those of the foe, bore them back upon the field in many places, yielding them prisoners from the very heart of the British line.
This triumph was momentary only- these gallant men were unsupported. DeKalb had already fallen under eleven wounds,
Gates had fled or was swept from the field by the flight of the militia; and Cornwallis, observing that there was no cavalry opposed to him, poured in in his dragoons, now returning from the pursuit of the fleeing soldiers, and ended the contest.
British Officers, Infantry, and Cavalry After the Battle
Aftermath of Camden
Never did soldiers behave better than the Continentals; but they were now compelled to fly.
The only chance that remained to avoid a surrender in the field, and escape from the sabers of the dragoons, in whom the Brits were very strong, was to break away to the swamp in their rear, into which the cavalry couldn't follow.
This was done, and by this measure, alone, did any part of this devoted corps find any safety.
The Americans lost the whole of their artillery, upwards of two hundred wagons, and all their baggage.
The Continentals suffered over one hundred and sixty killed in action, the militia had around seventy slain, with most of their dead coming from the ranks of the men who stood their ground.
The total in wounded was most probably around four to five hundred in number. Cornwallis counted about one thousand prisoners, many of them wounded.
The loss of the British, was about three hundred, in killed and wounded. Though the Royal Army fought with great bravery, they must have been defeated, but for the flight of the militia. The terrible conflict which followed with the Continentals proves it.
General Gage fled to Charlotte, N.C. sixty miles away, where he was eventually replaced by the brilliant General Greene, who went on to lead the Americans in clearing their enemy from the interior of Virginia and the Carolinas.
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Hi Alastar,
What an interesting relating of this Camden battle and the things leading up to and after it. Your one sentence certainly set the stage: "Gates, unhappily, was one of those men whom success intoxicates and ultimately destroys."
I am learning much from you! Good writing my friend! Useful and interesting votes.
Yes they do JKenny. Tarleton was a brave commander but utterly ruthless at times. After the Waxhaws massacre he got the 'Bloody Ban' moniker over here. If you read on his life after the war, when he was back in England, it's very interesting. He was involved in a love affair with the famous courtesan and poet Mary Robinson for example. Well, JKenny, you've read 4 of them. Gotta give you a gold star my man. Eutaw Springs is one of the best and not as well know as the others; and King's Mountain was the first one written, not very long but quite an interesting battle between the Tories and Over-the-mountain-men. Appreciate your interest and great input my English friend!
Another enlightening hub, learning of the Brits massacring troops trying to surrender goes to show that every country has elements of shame and darkness in its history. Voted up.
Capital Mkayla! So very glad this was a good research article for your American history report. It's not as well known as some of the others was but was just as important. Here's to a high score for you Mkayla!
This was an amazing site for me to do research on a paper of the Batlle Of Camden for my American History report !
His mother was being indulgent with the whiz kid Tey. You could tell she was a nice person and her only interest was her child's enthusiasm. Kinda got the impression he was exposed to the re-enacters a lot. It was so fine to hear that young boy's enthusiasm I must say. Thanks Rainbow..merry merry!
It's quite possible he did--about that particular happening! History books are still more boring, but they are better, and it amazes me how many kids watch the History channel! They don't forget that as much, either! His mother was either as shocked as you or sick of hearing him tell her what she'd already heard!
How wonderful to hear that about your grandson Tey. History needs no sugar-coating or re-writes and should always be real. Thank you; and kids can be surprising: several months ago I was at the local Barnes & Noble and heard a young man about your grandsons age telling his mother the history of certain Civil War stuff; my gosh Tey, the little fella seemed to know more about the subject than I did!
Thank you; history needs to be real--to all of us all the time. But in all honesty, my 9-yr-old grandson to my shock, has turned into the only child history buff I've ever known! Takes tales like yours to get 'em interested! So thanks!
There's a reason why some think Gettysburg is the most haunted place in America. Tey, thank you for sharing this, it can't be easy to recall something that affected you in that way. It says a lot about you in a good way. When that many people, with all the emotions, the adrenaline, the fear, even the ecstasy, for both sides knew this battle could effectively bring victory in the war one way or the other, well, its no surprise. Rainbow thank you dear lady and if you feel the kids would get anything out of anything I write you just go ahead and use them; I'd be honored.:)
My husband and I went in the winter, and there was no one around and just acres and acres of frosted fields and huge monuments. I'm pretty okay w/lots of stuff, but reading those monuments finally got to me. I don't think I've read or seen anything on the Civil War that bothered me so much. Like your mom, I couldn't take it after a while and slunk to the car in tears trying to get images and numbers out of my brain while my hubby wandered a while. Long time ago--still quite vivid in my memory. Been to other battlefields, but have to admit that one did me in. I digress; it really was a very, very good hub, and I hope you don't mind if I use it--credit all yours of course--things like this tend to get kids' attention. And I LEARNED a lot! Thanks again.
Tey I've always heard folks say they didn't much care for history in school for all the dates and figures they had to remember. Thats kept in mind when writing these. So much goes on in these battles that it can really get over-whelming. Thank you Tey, glad you got to see Gettysburg which can be a very sad place no doubt. My mother, who is a sensitive person in the sense she can pick-up things in her surroundings, went with the men to the Andersonville State Park were masses of Union prisoners were held. They weren't there but a short while before they had to leave as she got physically sick from what she was picking up- psychically I'd guess you'd say. Thanks again Rainbow and you have permission to do anything you please.:)
Think the lack of stats on the whole has an awful lot to do with how much I enjoy hubs like these! You make it real--not just the war, but the places and the people. I like history and years ago looked forward to a trip visiting specific places that made history then. Somehow, all the stats on all the monuments just overwhelmed me to the point I never want to see another number of those who died. I think it was toward the end of our journey --finished with Gettysburg that I became so saddened I pretty much ceased reading of that era except teaching, etc. My husband said, "u knew it was like that." I prefer your way better! Up, interesting and useful. A good read; w/your permission I'll stash it w/the VERY FEW stories I keep for students that aren't always in the book! Thank you!
Try to write them that way Dim, a minimum of statistics and such. If someone wants all the intricate battle details there are 3 and 400 page reads out there. I can understand why you have funny mixed feelings being British but even close brothers and sisters can get in fights and then stand together later on. There aren't many countries in the world as close as America and the U.K. are now. Gates was a fool and Cornwallis a brilliant commander who was taxed with subduing a land and people with the fire of liberty in their souls. That all took place a long time ago and we look at those times through the eyes of history only now. Thank you kindly good friend Dim.:)
And I have learned so much of the beauty of the human spirit from you. Up, up and away we go! Thank you dear Eddy!
Brilliant hub again. The way you write about history would make anyone take an interest, l should think. You bring it alive.
l always have funny mixed feelings when l read these hubs on the war of Independence, being British., but l enjoy them immensely and always learn something new.
A great leader should care about the welfare of his men. Trying to get tired soldiers to fight on empty stomachs is a recipe for disaster even when not up against someone as clever as Cornwallis.!!!
Thank you for a wonderful read again.
A great history lesson again Alaster. I have learnt so much due to these hubs of yours.
This one has to have an up up and away.
Take care and enjoy your day.
Eddy.
A lot of reading, some courses in college, and supportive parents when younger for any history knowledge here suzette, thank you kindly. The teaching profession probably wouldn't have suited back then anyway..lol. Wild chile you know..ha-ha. Appreciate the season's well wishes very much, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and the family too suzette!
Your very welcome Jackie! Merry Christmas!
Alastar: Your historical knowledge is amazing. Are you a history teacher/professor? I don't think I've ever asked you that, yet you would make a great one. This was very interesting and it is ashame these stories are not taught in history classes in school.
I want to take this time to wish you a Happy Holiday season. Next week starts the holiday rush and I wanted to make sure I stopped by to tell you this. I have enjoyed reading your hubs and knowing you on hubpages. Your writing is an inspiration to me. I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Thanks, Merry Christmas!
Jackie you do have a special way with the pictures. Can see why your excited about a new and powerful camera for Christmas. Yes, the camera's eye sees differently than we do sometimes doesn't it. I believe photography is already it for you happy girl!
Great... thanks Alastar. I am sort of like a bull in a china shop right now trying to keep both above 90 and I am on the verge of getting a few thousand pictures out if it works to my liking, lol. I think I am getting a new powerful camera for Christmas! I am amazed though of the quality of the one I have. I was told today I have a certain special style, I don't know but when I open up what I have taken I am always in awe, it seems more beautiful than when I actually saw it. If photography could be it for me, I would love it. Die a happy girl.
Ah thank you charfaris! History is the gift that keeps on giving and never runs out on you. Always great to meet another history lover!
Thank you for this. I love history and find it refreshing to learn about something I may have missed.
Thank you brother Pras. Your very kind with your words and prayer. You keep reading them and I'll try to keep writing them.:)
Jackie I hope you do find more cause it would make a great story. Hey! What about the Salem missionaries being the first to establish churches in the Cherokee territory. There's alot out on that subject. Yes, a perfect one for you to do...hold on a sec. Yep, a new book with some info about it is called An American Betrayal- Cherokees and Trail of Tears. You could get it and other material from the library. When you start to write more commercial articles I'll keep an eye out for stories that will suit you and have good search numbers but aren't saturated.:)
My brother, your hub always interesting and make me want to read more and more. You are the best in finding about the history of the war. This is your talent and I am glad to know this from you. Keep on writing and my prayer always for you...amen. Rated up!
Blessing and hugs, Prasetio
Mar thank you very kindly. So, your students treat their textbooks like foreign objects do they. Too bad the books can't be written in a manner that would engaging for them. But they've got a great teacher which is what really counts in the end anyways. Perhaps these could be expanded and sold to certain mags but I prefer to hold on to them for now, thank you for saying that though. Nurse mar don't you worry about being late; after a point it can be hard to keep up like we want to. You'll get to them when you can.:)
Well there is only one paragraph devoted to it, if that. So unless I can find more in the library written by someone else at that time which is probably quite unlikely, I don't expect to find anything but I think I do have that date in my writings, will try to find it and see if it really does beat the others, thanks. If I ever get the chance I plan to write for AdSense and probably will go for more commercial articles but hope to always keep them fun or interesting. Am talking now about maybe getting a book of mine out there so that might keep me busy too for awhile. Not a history one, lol, romance.
Alastar,
This morning it hit me... are you dreaming of compiling these stories, or am I stating the obvious? As a teacher, my students tend to treat their textbooks like foreign objects... but they would not dread a book of these stories, where history comes alive with your expressive words of interest and beauty. I am quite serious and am so sorry I am always a tad late with my viewing!
Voted UP & UABI-- so very detailed. Have a great week, Nurse mar.
Aw, appreciate that Skipper. All is well. Yes, winter has taken us into her firmly into her grip. You have it colder up your way...brrrr! Heat truly is a good friend these days, and so are you Colin.
...missing my buddy these days - sincerely hope all is well with you my friend - and yes I send everyone here who is interested in history or popular culture because as a writer's writer you are one of the best here at the HUB .........lake erie time ontario canada 2:34pm winter has got ahold of us here by the lake - my furnace has become my best friend - lol - but I love watching the daybreak at 7:30am and the sunset which goes down after 5pm and is dark by 5:30pm makes for a short day
Appreciate that very much lyric. When you say dim thats a good word to use as the out-look for victory seemed unlikely for the Americans on a number of occasions. Only a small percentage actively fought for their independence, but they stayed the course until it was achieved. Yes, fortunately for every Gates there was a Greene or Morgan, to name just two out-standing leaders. Glad you liked it lyric, these southern battles aren't as well known as the northern and are indeed quite interesting.
Up, awesome, useful, and interesting votes Alastar. A well written article my friend. Many people don't realize how dim our chances were back then of winning this war. Personally, it is shocking knowing we did. Things changed after this specific battle, but this was an important conflict. Gates made some very bad decisions, one after another. It was fortunate that things ended up like they did, for the sake of all of us. Always an interesting read pal.
Good Morning Frank and thank you. Seems to be a permanent affliction these days doesn't it. Perhaps someday that negative part of our 'DNA' will or can be transcended. Hopefully.
Wow, Alaster, what a way to share the battle of Camden-- It also keeps reminding me how often America is at War.. even if we do not call it war.. it's just a fabric of life.. it's in our DNA and you just confirmed that theory in this history ..
The Boer War, oh yes Martie. The Boer folk with president Paul Kreugar at war with Rhodes and the imperial interests. The Boers were excellent guerrilla fighters, absolutely. The first use of concentration camps in that conflict too. In many ways that time reminds me of the War between the States over here. There are some parallels. Thank you Martie for the great comment and thumbs up. Its very pleasing to know you take an interest in these.
They had no idea of the horrible fate which awaited them Gail. Like Mel Gibson's character says in The Patriot movie "Gates is a damn fool." I might have concentrated a little bit more on the American side in this one because of the out-come but yes, always try and show both sides. Gail, thank you much for everything, always a pleasure when you visit.
The militia soldiers had a poor performance at Camden, that's true Cred. They learned quickly and for the most part fought well thereafter, particularly at places like Kings Mt. and Cowpens. Interesting you bring up the similarities between Gage and McClellan. "Little Mac" was probably a better general on the battlefield but they both had egos that were detrimental to their objectives. Appreciate the interest and comment Cred.
Alastar, it is so interesting to read about the battles America had with the British. South Africa, too, had too many of these. But we had a lot of success as well. Did you know our 'Boere' were the inventors of guerrilla-forces?
As always, interesting, captivating and well-written.
This was an interesting read but I felt so bad for the troops that were being led by Gates who rushed them forward when they were already so fatigued and ill-equipped!
Thanks for writing this article about such an important era in our history. It's always exciting reading your articles about battles as you portray both sides giving us a more rounded appreciation for the truth.
Voted up, useful and interesting.
A most interesting account, it adds that much more meat to the term use in a derisive sense, "militia". This general Gage, reminds me of a counterpart in the Civil War, George McClellan. Thanks, Cred2
Haha! I'd better give up on my European translations Ms. Nell. Dusen means nozzles!!!
Hi Nell. I watched "The Madness of King George" twice and thought it was a good movie. The recent Academy Award one on the stuttering Prince or King didn't interest much. Bonnie Prince Charlies Scots were beaten badly at Culloden, your right. The Highland Scots in Eastern N.C. stayed with King George and had a battle early in the war against the Scotch-Irish which I may write on soon. You probably do have some ancestors over here- hey, just cross the pond and I'll help you look for 'em; would love to read or hear more about the Canadian ones. Dusen tack Nell!
Hello Thomas, thank you sir! Your absolutely right about Gates and appreciate the reminder about who really led the Americans to victory at Saratoga; most unfortunate that Benedict Arnold allowed situations later on to steer him into a traitors fate. The story has now been edited to call Gates the pseudo-victor! So, you and Creative Voice would be hiding in the swamp eh..lol. Reminds of the Rebel soldier before Pickett's Charge who on spotting a hare said something to the effect "Run cotton-tail run, if I'se a rabbit I'd run too!
Hi, amazing job done again Alastar, I know bits and pieces but you fill in all the gaps, King George was an arrogant king, and even though I am English I believe that the Americans were right to fight this, most of the Americans were made up of English Scottish and Irish too, that George had treated appallingly, no wonder they went on to the defensive side, over here the Scots were treated badly because of Culloden and then they went to america, and there were many English supporters who had to give up their lives too, to travel across the pond, who knows? maybe I have a few of my family tree over there! I know I have Canadians floating around for the same reason! lol! nice one, cheers nell
Alastar...
Awesome job as always my friend! Whenever I am perusing Revolutionary Battles...I always cringe when I see Horatio Gates' name in command. Luckily for us, at Saratoga, we also had the pre-treasonous Arnold to help along!
The war in the South was a brutal affair and you so clearly show that here. I like to think that I had I been there...Creative Voice and I would have been hiding in the swamp with the cowardly militia.
Truly excellent historical write-up my friend!
Thomas
Jackie why don't you write a hub about the Moravians' Thanksgiving. Perhaps you could find some more sources for their request to the governor, and bring this generally unknown and interesting history to folks. I've certainly never heard of it. In 1778 or 79, General Washington sent forces into Western New York to chastise nations in the Iroquois League allied to the British. Its often called the Year of the Hangman for the destruction wrought on them I believe. The Cherokee, going against the advice of the older and wiser chiefs, attacked the frontier, but were defeated early in the Revolution years. Andrew Jackson turned on them when he became president after they helped him win the Red Stick War in the 1800s. One of the chiefs said later on that if he had known Jackson was going to do that-the forced relocation to Oklahoma that is- he would have killed him in the conflict with the Creeks. Jackie thanks a bunch and do consider writing on Anna Catharina and the Thanksgiving.:)
There was certainly some crazy things going on in this country and even some such as Washington made some stupid or unfair moves, such as against the Cherokee after them helping the white man fight the British. There is one little thing that has my interest peaked and I mentioned it in one of my early history hubs and that is I believe the Moravian started Thanksgiving. It was very brief but a part of Anna Catharina's records that they requested the governor of NC set one day aside for Thanksgiving and he did. No one else ever mentions this. It should be a part of history since I believe it to be the really first celebration and maybe formation of the idea.
Great bit of history here you have too, thank you. I enjoy it so much more than in school with memorizing dates.
Thank you Tina! At Camden the American soldiers indeed had no idea what their General was leading them into. They paid a very heavy price for his incompetence; but lessons were learned. Tina, once in Charleston there was a traveling exhibit on the Revolutionary War in the South. The exhibit was excellent and there was one lithograph that stood out to me above everything else. It showed several Hessian soldiers forceably taking a man from his home to join their ranks. His wife had her arms around the legs of one soldier begging, while the grandmother was crying as she held a babe in her arms. An older daughter was also beginning to cry, and a little boy played on like nothing was wrong. That man's forced impressment probably meant starvation for his family. The picture just seemed to say it all as to why so many wanted their freedom. Appreciate you Tina.:)
Appreciate that Spirit! Live histories better any ole day, yes! The region around here is full of that eras history, and it really is a joy to hear from folks who get some enjoyment reading these. I'll be over your way soon to see what me fave hypnotherapists been up to. Tell Mary hi!
Now that's some good news Kelly. There's no place like home is there. He's very fortunate to have a niece like you. Its kinda funny about the computer, some old timers say not interested like Mick, and then there's some like I saw the other week taking classes for Twitter..lol. Well, thank you and now that you've got your time back just comment away any ole time!:)
Very interesting as always Alastar! You have a way to tell history and bring me information that I would never found on my one! It is hard to even imagine the feeling before going into a battle like that and in such bad condition. Poor men and their families! Voted up, interesting!
I wish you a great weekend Alastar!
Tina
Another brilliantly written hub packed full of the kind of details that brings the history to life. The thought and effort you put into these pieces is a real credit to you Dixie. Thank you.
Alastar - Mick finally was able to return to his home - hence I can leave all the comments I want now:) LOL. He was so impatient! But ahhh - it's nice to have all my time back and I'm so glad he's already able to take care of himself. I tried to teach him to use a computer but he refuses - he's an old timer:)
Your most welcome CM, my pleasure. CM I believe most of us on this world are ready to follow our true destiny in the stars and put the evils we're now beset with behind us forever. Unfortunately, power over people and service to self instead of service to others still reigns supreme. Btw, if you see this, there's a Camden in England right? Is it in the Mid-lands or southward? Thanks CM.
Skoal SanneL! Or is it Greece right now? Mucho pleasing you found this interesting. History is really history for the world wherever it took place. Got it in mind to find the best read on Sweden's "Lion of the North" Gustavus Adolpus soon. Oh. I must admit to slipping a bit at Thanksgiving with a slice of turkey, but shall keep up the good fight. Double Tack SanneL!
Thanks for this very detailed account of the battle of Camden Alastar, as always with your hubs I learned a great deal. I just wonder when we, the human race, are going to give up on the idea that killing each other is the answer to our problems. No sigh yet unfortunately, and we don't seem to be able to learn from the multiple lessons from history
Alastar - I learn so much from you!
This time in the history of America, is not something I knew so much about. Fascinating history!
Voted up and very interesting!
LOL Kelly, yes, invisible with a protective shield around you! Thanks a mil Kelly and let me know if you will how your Uncle likes it. Give him a big hello from me too please.:)
Awesome comment Seeker, thank you! Seeker I've heard it said that only 5% of the American population actively fought for their independence. But in the end these people triumphed despite foolish and egotistical Generals like Gates. Cornwallis had some of the attributes of leaders like Gates but was a superb tactician on the battlefield. The Brits high command also overestimated the amount of support they would find in the Southern States as well. King George was told before the Carolina campaign began that victory was not likely to happen but he refused to give up the fight. What that says about things today I don't know, but there must be some parallels. Seeker I appreciate your interest here, your insights are always most welcome my friend.
Hi there in beautiful Ontario Canook! Very pleased you like these and thanks for the vote. Anticipating your next hub Angie. I'll send you something over next couple of days when things get caught up.:)
Very interesting Alastar! I didn't know much about this either but it's fascinating history. I always wonder how much we still do not know - and how interesting it would have been to actually be there:) of course I'd want to be invisible! Lol.
A wonderful historical account of the battle of Camden. How history repeats itself.
Time and time again we see the slaughter of ordinary soldiers because of the arrogance and stupidity of someone who thinks they know better! And the British army was no better. I often think that these egotistical twats viewed battle and war as some kind of exciting game. That the men killed, lost or wounded were mere pieces on the board that could be replaced, rather than human beings. There is no doubt that both armies had a good number of excellent officers and who were generally good men, but there are always the ones such as 'Gates' whose aim and focus is to glorify themselves rather than fight for what they believe in or what they feel is right. Thankfully today, as far as I know, officers are held more accountble for their actions. When you look at someone like Gates, it also makes the bravery of the men who served under him more remarkable.
A fascinating hub and a reminder, putting Gates aside, of just how brave people can be when they stand up for and fight for what they believe in. They might not win every battle, but it's their spirit and their beliefs that inspire.
Hi! Tarheel Another awesome history hub....voted up!Canook
So your not that into the subject eh. Good, then its really nice to know a good ole Carolina girl got something out of the story. You never know Gail, you might have had an ancestor in that brutal dust-up; and you know I thank you ma'am!
you did it again Alastar--made history interesting for a good ole' Carolina girl that usually doesn't get "into" history! voted up!
Glad you like the piece resspenser! Camdens a beautiful and historic town and the carriage rides, coffee shop, and antiques-sssh, lets keep quit about the antiques stores around here okay..lol. Hope your friend at Camden Pawn & Jewelry enjoys the read. That was an important event in our nations history and should be remembered...if for no other reason the magnificent valor & sacrifice. Thank you Ronnie.
It is an interesting and often overlooked historical time in America, your right Mike. Thanks and except for Kentucky and a few other small spots the towns and settlements were still east of the Appalachians till after the war. The British promised the Native Americans to keep it that way so thats one of the main reasons most of the tribes/nations went-to their detriment- with King George.
Great, interesting hub. I have a good friend who owns Camden Pawn & Jewelry in that town now. I'm sending him this hub.
They have historic carriage rides, a great coffee shop and antiques galore!
This is a very interesting time in the history of America. Your presentation is enlightening and entertaining. I always find it interesting how very closely tied to the Atlantic coast all this history took place.
Hyph theres so much of that eras history around us we can take it for granted sometimes. Growing up it was mostly Kings Mountain and that was about it. Thank you Ms. B. Couple years ago there was a traveling Revolutionary War exhibit on the Carolinas and Georgia in Charleston at the Civil War museum there. It was awesome with artifacts, pics, etc. That towns great for that era. You should start researching some stuff on it around here, you'd write some interesting and unique articles on it for sure. Maybe from the women, children or Black/Native American perspective.
I never knew much of what is in this extraordinary article. Those poor men were half starved and practically without arms, but they did the right thing. Many people today should follow the example of those brave heroes. They weren't perfect and some had to realize the importance but they sure did that. Again Alastar, you have piqued my interest in this time of history and war.
Appreciate the perceptive comment there Mentalist. Imagine, if the civi-soldiers had only stood the shock along side their regular com-patriots history would have been different and perhaps the war ending and independence could have happened sooner. Your commend is returned double Bryan.
A brutal commentary on over-confidence by Gates and the waste of brave,and has history has proven,and extremely battle intuitive American Soldiers...From the also intuitive history detective journals of Alaster Packer,I Commend You!;)
Alastar Packer Hub Author 2 months ago
Thank you for choosing and commenting here Peggy. Mel Gibson's character said it best in "The Patriot": "Gates is a damn fool." Camden was an important battle in America's Revolutionary War because it allowed Cornwallis the initiative to take the war into the back-country headed towards Virginia. If a better General than Gates had been in command at Camden history as we know it concerning this conflict would probably be quite different.