Scars of Independence: The Violent Birth of America - A Historical Account of the Revolutionary War | Perfect for History Enthusiasts & Students

We are acclimated to The American Revolution being a noble and dignified rebellion full of idealistic debate and civilized battle. Historian and scholar Holger Hoock, in “Scars of Independence,” offers a vastly different scenario. According to his research, the arguments were hysterical screeches, vile atrocities were committed, and battles were blood-soaked encounters filled with vitriol and rage. So much for our ingrained childhood acceptance of stately myths about the revolution.According to Hoock’s intense research, the American Revolution’s ferocity was influenced by Britain’s declaration of unlimited war and it’s concern for its loyal fellow subjects across the sea, a ruthless approach towards battle by the loyalists, and the continuous contention of war crimes and use of barbaric tactics from both sides. Unsavory deaths occurred when flags of surrender were ignored, captives from each side were horribly mistreated, and executions, excused by the law of retaliation, were regularly conducted. Both sides were accused of committing other atrocities including plundering, rape, and seizure of private property. Genocidal campaigns against blacks and Native Americans were common.The war began with the formation of British troops that included Hessians. The idea that Britain would employ known barbarians such as the Germans inflamed the colonists and created deep hatred. Later, Native American involvement added more fuel to the fire. The colonies became more cohesive and violent in their strikes against the armies of King George III. Both sides made claims of atrocities and uncivilized war tactics. Hoock goes into intricate detail about the stories, some authenticated and others unverified.The author’s intent, in writing this unusual accounting that features so much blood and gore, is stated as taking a new look at how the warring nations conducted themselves and to align the various after musings that seem so divided. To do so, Hoock has presented documented information on rape and pillage, different attitudes about the conduct of the war, and prison life both on land and on ships. One of the more egregious acts allegedly performed by the British was the sentencing of colonial prisoners to slavery in Africa. Although not indisputably confirmed, it appears to have actually happened in some cases.I was particularly interested in Britain’s attitude that negotiations to ease the cruelty were worthless because the King did not recognize the colonists as a legal body. That attitude, of course, settled nothing.Also of interest is the information about attitudes. The author claims that the Patriots were less likely to inflict cruelties because of their proximity to foodstuffs and supplies that eased the misery of prisoners, as well as General George Washington’ s disapproval of any type of cruelty. I found the book, as overstuffed as it was with gore and hard times, to be thought provoking, well researched, and expertly written.Schuyler T WallaceAuthor of TIN LIZARD TALES