The American Revolutionary War lasted eight years. The British were definitely favored to win. They had one of the most powerful militaries and naval forces in the world. They had invaded and colonized many parts of the world, including parts of Africa and Asia. They had never experienced defeat.

Yet, through luck, perseverance, tactical skill and support from the French government, the Americans succeeded in gaining independence. Below are some facts and figures about the Revolutionary War.

• 2,165,076 British colonists lived in North America during the war.
• 20 percent of these colonists remained loyal to Great Britain.
• The British had 133,000 troops. Of these, 56,000 were regular military soldiers. 30,000 German (Hessian) troops joined the fight. 13,000 Native Americans fought for the Redcoats, along with 19,000 loyal colonists. 24,000 British troops died. 
• 96,000 troops served in the American army. Only 35,000 of these were career army soldiers. 45,000 were militiamen – men who enlisted to serve their country. 5,000 sailors served along with 12,000 French troops. 25,000 American soldiers died; only 4,435 died in battle. About 10,000 troops died of disease. 18,000 troops were taken as prisoners of war and 10,000 of these soldiers died of disease, mistreatment, and hunger. American troops were three times more likely to die on a British prisoner ship than in battle. 
• Up to 25,000 freed blacks and slaves fought on both sides. 

Questions and Answers

Question:  What happened to the troops after the war was over?

Answer:  Most soldiers on both sides returned to their regular lives. About 20 percent of the German soldiers who had fought for the British stayed in America. 70,000 Loyalists went to Canada or returned to England after the war.

Question:  Was George Washington a successful military leader?

Answer:  Washington was a brilliant military strategist, but more importantly, he led his troops with integrity. He was usually first to the battle line and worked with his troops to dig trenches or do whatever needed to be done. He led the Continental Army in five of the biggest battles, but only one of those battles was a clear, decisive victory. What if he had become discouraged and quit? Fortunately, he kept trying.

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