Abstract
Historian Robert Middlekauff describes Revolutionary War-era America as a society of the twice-born, people profoundly influenced by both radical English Whig ideology and the reformed Protestantism of the Great Awakening.[1] Historians have studied the influence of Christianity on many of the leading figures of the American Revolution, with the notable exception of Major General Horatio Gates. Gates’ military career presents a paradox to military historians: how could the victor at Saratoga in 1778 suffer ignominious defeat at Camden in August 1780? This paper will argue that Horatio Gates’ misfortunes during the American Revolution were due principally to his unregenerate character. The paper will begin by examining Gates’ formative years and his service in the British army during the Seven Years’ War – a career marked by frustration and mediocrity. From there, the narrative will focus on Gates’ emigration to Virginia, and eventual involvement in the War of the American Revolution. The paper will then present analysis and conclusions drawn from available primary sources to illustrate how Gates’ character shaped not only his military career but also influenced the course of the American Revolution.
Recommended Citation
Skinner, Harold Allen Jr.
(2024)
"Dangerous Ambition: Character Analysis of Major General Horatio Gates,"
Bound Away: The Liberty Journal of History: Vol. 6:
Iss.
2, Article 1.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/ljh/vol6/iss2/1