The Memoirs of a Revolutionary Soldier (eBook)

Joseph Plumb Martin (1760–1850) was an American soldier and author, renowned for his firsthand account of the Revolutionary War penned in his later years. Born in Becket, Massachusetts, Martin was the grandson of Pastor Ebenezer Martin and son of a pastor, both influences likely igniting his sense of duty which led him to enlist in the Continental Army at the young age of 15. Serving from 1776 until the war's conclusion in 1783, Martin experienced the trials of battle, encampment, and the camaraderie of fellow soldiers. He later settled into life as a farmer and occasional public servant. In his elder years, Martin authored 'The Memoirs of a Revolutionary Soldier', published in 1830, which presents a vivid and often harrowing depiction of the life of a common soldier during the Revolutionary era. His narrative is appreciated for its detail, humor, and the rare perspective it offers, diverging from the more common accounts by military leaders. Martin's writing holds significant literary value, documenting the resilience and daily struggles faced by ordinary soldiers. It continues to be a valuable resource for historians and readers interested in the Revolutionary War, providing a poignant, personal view of American history.