The American War of Independence (1775-83) was not a fight the British Army wanted. Campaigning far from home, over vast expanses of land, was bound to present considerable logistical challenges and a drawn-out guerrilla conflict seemed likely to ensue.

Their fears were realised in the opening battles of 1775. Failure to overcome these problems led to initial criticism of the Army's efforts. But by 1776, a series of victories over rebel American forces had begun to turn the tide.

In this revealing talk, Dr Paul Knight will examine some of the factors behind the British Army’s performance early on in the conflict. He will also look at the process of rapid adaptation that allowed the Redcoats to dominate the battlefield.

Dr Paul Knight VR FRHistS is a major in the British Army. He works in Historical Analysis at the Land Warfare Centre and is the author of several military history books, most recently ‘A Very Fine Regiment: The 47th Foot During the American War of Independence, 1773-83’.

American War of Independence: The Early Years