T. Cole Jones Books

Contrary to popular belief, the American Revolutionary War was not a limited struggle for political self-determination. British authorities viewed American rebels as traitors, leading to widespread abuse of American prisoners, often condoned or sanctioned by British officials. Over seventeen thousand British and allied soldiers were captured by American forces, presenting a significant challenge for a nascent nation struggling to maintain an army. This examination explores how America's founding generation addressed the complexities of managing prisoners of war and the broader social and political implications of these issues. Initially, revolutionary leaders aimed to conduct the war according to European customs, which emphasized humane treatment of captives. However, as the British denied protections to American prisoners, revolutionary leaders exploited their suffering for propaganda. This incited public outrage, prompting ordinary Americans to seek vengeance against British soldiers and their allies. This escalation of violence transformed the fight for independence into a revolutionary war. The analysis reveals how the conflict's brutality significantly shaped the American Revolution's character and consequences, offering the first comprehensive look at how American treatment of enemy prisoners influenced the political revolution and the war itself.