American Prisoners of War Held at Dartmoor During the War Of 1812
by Eric Eugene Johnson
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American Prisoners of War Held at Dartmoor During the War Of 1812 by Eric Eugene Johnson
Details
War:
War of 1812
Perspective:
Prisoners of War
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
North America
Page Count:
500
Published Date:
2016
ISBN13:
9780788457203
Description
Main Themes and Topics
In American Prisoners of War Held at Dartmoor During the War Of 1812, Eric Eugene Johnson provides a meticulous transcription of historical records detailing the lives of 6,553 American prisoners captured by the British during the War of 1812. These records, drawn from the General Entry Book of American Prisoners of War ledgers, offer a window into the hardships and resilience of both naval personnel and civilians. A significant aspect of Johnson's work is the acknowledgment of diversity among the prisoners; 867 individuals are identified as men of color, highlighting the often-underrepresented role of non-white individuals in early American military history. Additionally, the book explores themes of survival and adaptation, documenting instances of evasion of capture through enlistment in British forces and daring escapes from imprisonment.
Writing Style and Tone
Johnson's writing style is authoritative and scholarly, reflecting his background as an archivist and historian. The transcription is presented with precision, catering to researchers and history enthusiasts seeking accurate and detailed records. While the primary content is factual and data-driven, Johnson's passion for unearthing and preserving history shines through, lending the book an engaging tone despite its technical nature. His work serves as both a historical resource and a tribute to the individuals who endured the trials of war and imprisonment.
Brief Summary
The book acts as a comprehensive repository of American prisoners of war records from the War of 1812. It captures the individuals taken as prisoners by British forces and offers insights into their experiences at the Dartmoor Depot from April 1813 to March 1815. In addition to providing names and affiliations, Johnson reports on the ethnic diversity among captives and their varied fates—ranging from enlistment in British forces to escape or death. By transcribing these ledgers, Johnson preserves essential details about a lesser-known aspect of American history, enriching our understanding of the era and its diverse participants.
