Armand's Legion facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Armand's Legion |
|
|---|---|
| Active | 1778–1783 |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Type | Dragoon |
| Size | 300–450 |
| Part of | Continental Army |
| Engagements | Guilford Court House and Yorktown |
| Commanders | |
| Notable commanders |
Colonel Armand |
Armand's Legion was a special military group during the American Revolution. It was created on June 25, 1778, in Boston, Massachusetts. The legion was led by a French officer named Colonel Charles Armand Tuffin. They fought for the Continental Army, which was America's army at the time.
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Colonel Armand's Journey to America
Colonel Armand had served in the French Army before coming to America. He was part of the Garde de Corps, a special guard for the King of France. However, he left France after a personal conflict. He then traveled to America to join the fight for independence.
George Washington, the leader of the Continental Army, allowed Armand to form his own fighting group. Armand faced some challenges in gathering soldiers. It is said that he even bought a small army from another officer.
Growing the Legion's Numbers
Armand's Legion mainly recruited volunteers from other countries who wanted to help America. They fought bravely with General Washington's forces in the northern colonies. After some tough battles, the legion lost many soldiers.
To rebuild their strength, they were allowed to recruit prisoners of war from Hessen. In 1780, the remaining soldiers from another famous group, Pulaski's Legion, joined Armand's Legion. This helped make the group stronger.
Becoming the 1st Partisan Corps
In 1781, Armand's Legion was reorganized and given a new name: the 1st Partisan Corps. They combined with another small cavalry unit. This new corps played an important role in several key battles.
They fought in the Battle of Camden and the Battle of Guilford Court House. They also took part in the important Siege of Yorktown. Colonel Armand briefly left the legion after the Battle of Camden to get more money and supplies from France. He returned just in time to rejoin his soldiers at Yorktown. He even participated in the successful attack on Redoubt 10, a key part of the battle.
When the Legion Ended
Armand's Legion, or the 1st Partisan Corps, was officially disbanded on December 25, 1783. This happened in York, Pennsylvania. The legion had served the Continental Army for five years, helping America win its independence.
