Hessian (soldier) facts for kids
The Hessians were German soldiers who were hired to fight for the British Empire. These soldiers came from several small German states. They fought alongside British troops during the American Revolutionary War.
Some German Princes agreed to send their soldiers to England. In return, they received a lot of money. This made the princes very rich.
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The Hessians: German Soldiers in the American Revolution
Who Were the Hessians?
The Hessians were professional soldiers from several small German states. The most famous ones came from Hesse-Kassel and Hesse-Hanau. These states were like small countries with their own rulers.
These rulers, often called princes or landgraves, had well-trained armies. They would "rent out" their soldiers to other countries. This was a common practice in Europe at the time.
Why Did German Princes Rent Their Soldiers?
The German states were not very rich. Renting out their armies was a major source of income. It helped them pay for their governments and palaces.
The soldiers themselves also received pay. For many, joining the army was a way to earn a living. It offered a steady job and a chance for adventure.
Hessians in the American Revolutionary War
The British needed more soldiers to fight in America. They decided to hire troops from these German states. About 30,000 Hessian soldiers fought for the British.
They were a significant part of the British forces. They fought in many important battles. Their presence showed how serious Britain was about keeping its American colonies.
Key Battles and Their Role
Hessian soldiers fought bravely in many battles. They were known for their discipline and training. Here are some of the major battles they were involved in:
- Battle of Long Island (1776): Hessians played a key role in this early British victory. They helped push back the American forces.
- Battle of Fort Washington (1776): Hessians led the attack on this important American fort. They captured many American soldiers.
- Battle of Trenton (1776): This was a famous defeat for the Hessians. George Washington's army surprised them on Christmas night. Many Hessians were captured.
- Battle of Brandywine (1777): Hessians helped the British win this battle in Pennsylvania. It opened the way to capture Philadelphia.
- Battles of Saratoga (1777): This was a major turning point in the war. Hessians were part of the British army that surrendered here.
- Siege of Yorktown (1781): Hessians were among the British forces that surrendered at Yorktown. This effectively ended the war.
Life as a Hessian Soldier
Life for a Hessian soldier was tough. They traveled far from home. They faced harsh conditions and dangerous battles.
Many Hessians were farmers or craftsmen before joining the army. They wore distinctive uniforms. These often included tall hats and colorful coats.
Some Hessians were captured during the war. They became prisoners of war. Many were held in places like Allentown, Pennsylvania.
After the War: What Happened to Them?
After the American Revolutionary War ended in 1783, most Hessians returned home. However, some chose to stay in America. They settled down and became American citizens.
These soldiers contributed to the new country. They brought their skills and culture. Their story is an important part of American history.
Images for kids
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This memorial in Allentown, Pennsylvania marks where Hessian prisoners were held by General George Washington's Continental Army.
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A memorial plaque for Oberst Franz Carl Erdmann Freiherr von Seitz in St. Paul's Church, Nova Scotia, who died in 1782.
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The Capture of the Hessians at Trenton, December 26, 1776, by John Trumbull. It shows General Washington helping the wounded Hessian colonel Johann Rall.
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Wilhelm von Knyphausen, a commander of the Hessians during the American Revolutionary War.
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Johann Holland, a Hessian soldier, at the Little Dutch (Deutsch) Church in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
See also
In Spanish: Hessiano (soldado) para niños
