Richard Prescott facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Richard Prescott
Born	1725 (1725)
Died	1788 (aged 62–63)
Allegiance	Kingdom of Great Britain
Service/branch	British Army
Rank	Lieutenant General
Battles/wars	Seven Years' War American Revolutionary War
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Richard Prescott was a British soldier who lived from 1725 to 1788. He became a high-ranking officer in the British Army. He fought in two major wars: the Seven Years' War and the American Revolutionary War.

Becoming a British Officer

Richard Prescott started his military career as a major in the 33rd Regiment of Foot in 1756. Over the next few years, he moved to different regiments. He became a lieutenant-colonel in the 17th Regiment of Foot by 1761. In 1762, he joined the 50th Regiment of Foot. With this group, he served in the Holy Roman Empire during the Seven Years' War. This was a big war fought by many European countries.

Serving in Canada

In 1772, Prescott was promoted to colonel in the army. He then moved to Canada in 1773. When American forces took control of Montreal in 1775, Prescott tried to capture Quebec City from them. However, he was forced to give up to the Americans on November 17, 1775.

Prisoner Exchanges

Prescott was a prisoner of war for a while. In September 1776, he was traded for an American general named John Sullivan. This was a common practice during wars. After his release, Prescott became a colonel of his own regiment in November. In December, he was the third-highest commander in an important mission to Rhode Island. He stayed there to lead the British forces before the Battle of Rhode Island.

Captured Again

On July 10, 1777, Lieutenant-Colonel William Barton and 40 of his men captured Prescott. They found him at his home on Prescott Farm in Rhode Island. They took him to Providence. Prescott was traded again, this time for another American general, Charles Lee. After this second exchange, Prescott returned to his command in Rhode Island. However, he was soon replaced by Sir Robert Pigot.