Topic

Letters about Founding Era

16,550 letters
Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, October 13, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Elizabeth Schuyler
October 13, 1780

Alexander Hamilton writes to Elizabeth Schuyler expressing his deep affection and admiration for her, comparing his passion to legendary historical figures. He emphasizes his restless desire to remain connected with her despite his duties as a soldier and philosopher. Hamilton also mentions sending a letter and a gift through Colonel Morris to her family.

Letter

George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, October 12, 1780

From George Washington
To Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau
October 12, 1780

George Washington agrees with Rochambeau's request to double his current military encampment. He promises to provide detailed information about British troop movements once they are confirmed. The letter reflects ongoing coordination between American and French forces during the Revolutionary War.

Letter

George Washington to Samuel Huntington, October 11, 1780

From George Washington
To Samuel Huntington
October 11, 1780

George Washington approves the proposed Army establishment but recommends increasing regiment sizes and extending enlistment terms. He advocates for officers to receive either half-pay for life or full pay for seven years and insists bounties be paid in specie. Washington opposes state control over regiment reductions, arguing that Congress should retain that authority.

Letter

George Washington to Samuel Huntington, October 11, 1780

From George Washington
To Samuel Huntington
October 11, 1780

George Washington approves reducing the Continental Army to 50 regiments and proposes a half-pay system for officers as compensation, either for life or converted to full pay over seven years after peace. He outlines detailed organizational structures for infantry, cavalry, partisan corps, and artillery units, specifying ranks and roles within each regiment. Washington also addresses recruitment supervision and the establishment of officers' ranks and duties.

Letter

George Washington to Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, October 10, 1780

From George Washington
To Jean-Baptiste Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau
October 10, 1780

George Washington expresses disappointment that the current campaign has not yielded significant successes and doubts the effectiveness of operations involving naval forces. He approves the detention of Colonel Christopher Greene’s regiment and informs Rochambeau about the execution of Major John André.

Letter

George Washington to Benjamin Franklin, October 9, 1780

From George Washington
To Benjamin Franklin
October 9, 1780

George Washington writes to Benjamin Franklin expressing that a postwar European tour would be appealing but is precluded by pressing domestic issues. He emphasizes that the survival of the United States depends on securing peace or financial support from its allies. Washington conveys the urgency of the military and political situation in 1780.

Letter

George Washington to Officer Commanding at Dobbs Ferry, October 8, 1780

From George Washington
To Officer Commanding at Dobbs Ferry
October 8, 1780

George Washington directs the officer commanding at Dobbs Ferry to strengthen the fortifications and maintain vigilance against British attacks. He emphasizes the importance of securing the position to protect the Hudson River corridor. Washington also orders coordination with nearby forces to ensure effective defense.

Letter

George Washington to Officer Commanding at West Point and Its Dependencies, September 27, 1780

From George Washington
To Officer Commanding at West Point and Its Dependencies
September 27, 1780

George Washington instructs the officer commanding West Point and its dependencies to prepare multiple posts for immediate defense. He emphasizes readiness to respond quickly to potential threats. The letter reflects Washington's strategic focus on securing key military positions during the Revolutionary War.