Robert Rogers of the Rangers

by John R. Cuneo

This is the classic biography of Robert Rogers, founder and leader of The Rangers. Historian Julian Boyd says, "Here at last, is a straight, unvarnished account of the most famous of the 18th century forerunners of the Commandos of the 20th century. Robert Rogers's exploits around Ticonderoga and Crown Point won him fame on two continents."

This splendid biography is Recommended by the Company of Military Collectors and Historians.

Robert Rogers, like George Washington, was a true American hero of the French and Indian Wars. He was also the hero of the St. Francis Raid, of Pontiac's Conspiracy, and the search for the Northwest Passage to the Orient, via Hudson's Bay.

Although Rogers's men followed him bravely in every battle, Rogers was criticized by one superior, who called him, "A worthless Major."

Courtmartialed for treason, Major Rogers was relentlessly pursued by his creditors.

But Rogers was a brave and intrepid man. Author John R. Cuneo sheds new light on the days when white men and Indians scalped one another. When enemies were able to shout, "Rogers is killed, completely; clothes, coat and breeches," Rogers was at that moment leading his men in, "A hot engagement."

For all his heroism, Robert Rogers of the Rangers, resigned after brief service with the British in the American Revolution. The story was that he had no desire to fight against his countrymen. He finished his life in and out of debtor's prison. He had become a drunkard, and died of it after a hard life of exile in England in 1795.

Author John R. Cuneo was a lawyer as well as an historian. Of Rogers, he wrote, "The evidence has left me his champion." Robert Rogers was also the hero of Kenneth Roberts' novel Northwest Passage, which was also made into a film.

Genres: Biography

308 pages, Hardcover

First published July 1, 1987

Reviews

[Charles A. Mayhood · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thorough and enjoyable trip through the time and events.

[Chuck · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the first "modern" standard biographies of Robert Rogers, written in 1959. It concentrates on his early years and not on his later years when he is hounded by Johnson, Gage, and his creditors, and eventually destroyed.

I found it a well written history of a very important tactical innovator during the Seven Years War. Sadly, after the war, his many talents were wasted by the social and governance structure of the time.

I would recommend this book or War on the Run for the reader interested in Seven Year and Revolutionary War history, special operations or just a good historic read. War on the Run is more up-to-date and includes much more on the destruction of Robert Rogers. To the point that I found it almost painful to read. Both are well written and will provide insight into the man and his times.