Washington's Lieutenants

Major versus Brigadier Generals in the Revolutionary War

By: Douglas M. Branson

Narrated by: Brandon Pollock

As commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, George Washington developed the strategy that won the Revolutionary War, but while Washington directed some battles, his strategy for the most part was carried out by his subordinates. In the spirit of the best military history and biography, Washington's Lieutenants tells the story of the generals who served under Washington from 1775 to 1781.

Based on extensive research, the book finds the brigadier generals a laudable group of commanders. A quarter of all brigadiers died in the service of the new nation.

Only three served for the war's duration, including the great Nathanael Greene and Henry Knox. Ten resigned. Benedict Arnold turned coat. At least three were involved in the so-called Conway Cabal of 1777–78 to oust General Washington. The controversial Horatio Gates, self-proclaimed victor of Saratoga, was accused of cowardice at the Battle of Camden, South Carolina.

At once entertaining information about some of the Revolutionary War's most colorful military commanders and an insightful analysis of how the young nation fought for its independence, Washington's Lieutenants will be essential during the war's 250th anniversary and beyond.

©2025 Douglas M. Branson (P)2025 Tantor Media

Evan's Review

If you like military history I strongly recommend this book. This enforces my aminaution of George Washington of his leadership of having to deal with his Majpr Generals because some them were not loyal to him second guess to him drunks and enconment in the rank they held since the contental congres controled the promotion. This looks these Generals and compare them to three Brigidal Generals . I strongly recommend the book.