American establishment (British army) facts for kids
During the American Revolutionary War, the British Army created something special called the American establishment. This was a group of five special regiments made up of American colonists who chose to stay loyal to Britain. These regiments were officially added to the regular British army on May 2, 1779. They were given numbers from 1st to 5th American Regiments.
The idea behind creating this establishment was to make these American regiments feel just as important as other British army units. The British government hoped this would encourage more loyal Americans to join their side in the war.
In 1782, some changes happened. The 2nd American Regiment (the Volunteers of Ireland) became part of the Irish army system. The 4th and 5th American Regiments also joined the main British army. The two remaining regiments were officially ended in 1783 after the war was over.
The Five Special Regiments
- 1st American Regiment of Foot (also known as the Queen's Rangers)
- 2nd American Regiment of Foot (also known as the Volunteers of Ireland)
- 3rd American Regiment of Foot (also known as the New York Volunteers)
- 4th American Regiment of Foot (also known as the King's American Regiment)
- 5th American Regiment of Foot (also known as the British Legion)
See also
