"Redcoats. For Americans, the word brings to mind the occupying army that attempted to crush the Revolutionary War. There was more to these soldiers than their red uniforms, but the individuals who formed the ranks are seldom described in any detail in historical literature. In Noble Volunteers: The British Soldiers Who Fought the American Revolution, Don N. Hagist brings life to these soldiers, describing the training, experiences, and outcomes of British soldiers who fought during the Revolution. Drawing on thousands of military records and other primary sources in British, American, and Canadian archives, Noble Volunteers shows how a peacetime army responded to the onset of war, how professional soldiers adapted quickly and effectively to become tactically dominant, and what became of the thousands of career soldiers once the war was over. In this historical tour de force, introduced by Pulitzer Prize winner Rick Atkinson, Hagist dispels long-held myths, revealing how remarkably diverse British soldiers were" -- publisher.

A peacetime army prepares for war.Seduced, kidnapped, and cruelly used : tensions in America -- Roving dispositions and soaring spirits : enlisting in a peacetime army -- Closeness and smartness in everything he does : training and duties -- Working hard at the firelock : preparing for war -- The wartime army. Evident superiority even in the woods : adapting to warfare in America -- Gone volunteer to America : recruiting for the American War -- Barracks and barns, transports and tents, wigwams and blankets -- Beef and bread, fever and flux, swimming and sack races -- The plunder problem -- Bringers handsomely rewarded : recruiting for global war -- Bounties, wages, rewards, prizes, and promotions -- Ending careers, ending the war. The remains of the regiments -- Long and faithful services.