Echoes of War: A Gazetteer of Sites Connected to the American War of Independence
'Death of Major Pierson [sic] and defeat of the French troops in the Island of Jersey on 6th of January 1781' (National Army Museum)
The American War of Independence (1775-83) was a conflict that had a profound significance. It cost the lives of British soldiers and seamen whilst its direction and conduct both made and also ruined the reputation of politicians and servicemen alike. For many in Britain it was a divisive war. It not only raised the threat of raids by American privateers such as the Scottish-born John Paul Jones but also the very real danger of invasion once France, Spain and the Dutch Republic joined the war on the American side in 1778, 1779 and 1780 respectively. Indeed, there was a major French raid on Jersey in 1781. American prisoners were also held in Britain. Coastal defences were strengthened.
Volunteer units were formed for defence against invasion with those raised in Ireland taking on political significance. The war was fought not just in North America and the Caribbean but also in Europe and beyond, including India. All these aspects of the war are reflected in museums, monuments, memorials, and surviving buildings in Britain and elsewhere.
Thanks are due to Ian Beckett, Janet Bromley, Rich Gilbert, Earl Howe, Dr Frances Kerner and Phil Philo.
Comments and feedback, and any information about additional sites not currently covered in the gazetteers, should be directed to Professor Ian Becket at i.beckett@kent.ac.uk.