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British Army, British Recruiting Party, 1780
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British Army, British Recruiting Party, 1780
3031299 British Army, British Recruiting Party, 1780 by Bunbury, Henry William (1750-1811) (after); Private Collection; (add.info.: This caricature was published during the American War of Independence (1775-1783), a conflict that made enormous demands on British Army manpower. Here a recruiting officer and a non-commissioned officer line up new recruits outside an inn. Although the Army required able-bodied men, in times of shortage it would make do with whoever it could get. Many recruits were less than ideal material, as this caricature illustrates. Even so, the Government could not find enough recruits at home, and was forced to supply the shortfall by hiring Hessian (German) mercenaries.
); Photo eDon Troiani; English, out of copyright
Media ID 23431150
© Don Troiani / Bridgeman Images
American Revolution American War For Independence North American Historical Event Recruit Recruiting Recruitment United States Historical Event
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in British history during the American War of Independence. The image depicts a British Recruiting Party in 1780, showcasing the immense demands placed on the British Army for manpower during this conflict. As seen outside an inn, a recruiting officer and non-commissioned officer diligently line up new recruits, highlighting the desperate need to bolster their forces. The caricature-like portrayal emphasizes that while able-bodied men were preferred, shortages forced the Army to accept recruits who may not have been ideal candidates. This comical representation serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Government in finding enough soldiers domestically. To make up for this shortfall, they resorted to hiring Hessian mercenaries from Germany. Within this artwork's intricate watercolor strokes lies an important chapter in both British and North American historical events. It symbolizes not only the military aspect but also reflects upon revolution and change occurring on both sides of the Atlantic during that era. Preserved within private collections today, this painting offers us a glimpse into recruitment practices and military strategies employed by Britain at that time. Its significance extends beyond mere artistic expression; it is an invaluable piece documenting history itself – reminding us of sacrifices made and choices taken during one of history's most transformative periods: The American Revolution.
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