Knox, Henry, 1750-1806 [Response to queries from Headquarters]

GLC02437.00660

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GLC#
GLC02437.00660-View header record
Type
Documents
Date
circa October 27-29, 1777
Author/Creator
Knox, Henry, 1750-1806
Title
[Response to queries from Headquarters]
Place Written
s.l.
Pagination
5 p. : Height: 30.4 cm, Width: 18.2 cm
Primary time period
American Revolution, 1763-1783
Sub-Era
The War for Independence

In the hand of Samuel Shaw. Knox expresses his opinion against a general attack on the British. Writes, "It requires the best discipline, the firmest spirit, and good officers, to storm works or to make an impression on British troops. Not that I suppose the Europeans will make better soldiers than the Americans, but that habitual discipline to which they are used and in which all their officers are initiated gives them a superiority over us, which nothing but a similar discipline or superior numbers can counterbalance." Discusses the division in Continental troops between northern (against Burgoyne in New York) and southern campaigns (near Philadelphia). Refers to the possibility of uniting American troops. Suggests that Reading, Pennsylvania serve as the site for a large cantonment. Covers other military matters including, deserters, promotions, and offices. Prepared for George Washington in response to his queries of 26 October 1777. See GLC02437.00676 for a draft in Knox's hand.

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