Cowpens 1781: Turning point of the American Revolution

Osprey Campaign #283

by Ed Gilbert

This is a blistering account of the battle of Cowpens, a short, sharp conflict which marked a crucial turning point in the American Revolution. With Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton and the British troops in hot pursuit, Daniel Morgan, leading a small force of 700 Continentals and militia, chose the Cowpens as the battlefield in which to make a stand. The two forces clashed for barely more than 45 minutes, yet this brief battle shaped the outcome of the War in the South and decisively influenced the conflict as a whole. The authors provide a shrewd analysis of what was perhaps the finest tactical performance of the entire war. Bird's-eye views, vivid illustrations and detailed maps illuminate the dynamism of this clash between two of the most famous commanders of the War of Independence.

Genres: History, American Revolution, Nonfiction, Military History

96 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 22, 2016

Reviews

[Joseph Ficklen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book, indulges in some myths, while dispelling others. For example, the old “Bloody Ban” myths. Tarleton’s British Legion were hardened killers, but they were engaged in an extremely brutal conflict, don’t hate them because they were good at killing. The account of the campaign and battle is excellent. It was a perfect mixture of Tarleton’s rashness and Morgan’s cunning that transformed a likely British success into a decisive American victory.

[Steven Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short, clear read, excellent maps and explanations of this critical skirmish. Does a good job of bringing the participants to life. This battle was fictionalized in the movie The Patriot and it’s interesting to see the drama of the real battle.

[Gregory Knapp · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is almost a clinical, classroom book, not so much a story. If you're looking for the facts, for details of the battle plan at various stages of the fight and some, but not heave character development, then this is for you. That's not bad.

[Flynt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 1st book I've read of the "campaign" series. Very impressive!

[NAOMI M BEARDSLEY · Rating 5 out of 5]

Illuminating, great detail for interested readers

Great read!😎 My first introduction to ending battles and strategies of War of Independence. War buffs will enjoy this book!😃

[Stan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good little book with some important incites into the engagement. Good for wargaming the battle as well.