Much is said about Rogers being an American hero, and the men he gathered around him being yankees. But the fact is at this time the American revolution had not happened. People born into a German or English family in the New World, thought of themselves as German or English, not American, and they spoke with the same accent as other family members. In fact Rogers went to England after the war, and I believe he is buried somewhere in London.
Hi Loup,
ReplyDeleteYes. Major Rogers was buried in London. A few years ago, an association of American and Canadian Special Forces types went over to bring him back and rebury him in New Hampshire; but to no avail. The graveyard had been destroyed by the Germans during the blitz.
I always thought it odd that Washington was suspicious of Rogers when he offered to join the Americans, because of his "long association with the English". (Now there's the pot calling the kettle black!) Particularly, when he was quick enough to accept the services of other former British Army Majors like Lee, Gates and Montgomery for significant commands. Perhaps a bit of "professional jealousy" from the Man Of Marble from Mt. Vernon?
Very interesting food for thought Martin, thanks for the feedback.
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