The United States Army is celebrating its 250th birthday this year. But what did it look like when it was first created? In this episode we are joined by our friend, author and historian, John Rees. Together we explore the birth of the Continental Army and men who served in it. 

Referenced Materials 

They Were Good Soldiers, By John U. Rees

The Continental Army, By Robert Wright

Private Yankee Doodle, By Joseph Plum Martin

A Revolutionary People at War, By Charles Royster

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General Recommended Reading

The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy

Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns

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In this episode of Prime & Load!, our very own Dr. Alex Burns unpacks the thrilling story of the Battle of Hohenfriedberg (1745). Another pivotal clash in the War of the Austrian Succession, Dr. Burns breaks down the masterful tactics employed by Frederick the Great’s Prussian forces against the Austrian and Saxon armies. From innovative cavalry maneuvers to the resilience of the infantry, discover how this battle cemented Prussia’s military reputation. 

Referenced Materials

Frederick the Great: A Military Life, By Christopher Duffy

The Army of Frederick the Great, By Christopher Duffy

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General Recommended Reading

The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy

Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns

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With out guest Dr. Paul Knight we explore the training of the British Army. A British Army Officer himself Paul has studied how the army trained and prepared itself for war.

Referenced Materials

A Very Fine Regiment, The 47th Foot during the American War of Independance, 1773-1783, Paul Knight

With Zeal and Bayonets Only, The British Army on Campaign in North America, 1775-1783, Matthew H. Spring 

Joseph Wright if Derby: Life on Paper, Museum and Art Gallery 

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General Recommended Reading

The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy

Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns

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It's the 280th anniversary of the Battle of Fontenoy!  Join us for a look into the battle, who fought it and the tactics they employed. 

Maps and more! 

Referenced Works

Marshal of France, Jon Manchip White

Fontenoy 1745, Cumberland's Blood Defeat, Michael McNally

Fontenoy: France Dominating Europe, Denis Gandilhon

Great Britain and the Defense of the Low Countries 1744-1748, Alastair Massie

The War of the Austrian Succession, M.S. Anderson

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General Recommended Reading

The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy

Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns

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Join us as we welcome our good friend Mark Canady for a discussion of the hobby of reenacting. Together, we talk about our impressions, why we do them, and how we approach this weird and wonderful hobby. 

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General Recommended Reading

The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy

Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns

*All materials are affiliated links that earn the show commission. Using these links helps support the podcast. Thank you.

The 250th Anniversary is here! On April 19th, 1775 American militia men faced off against British regulars and to mark the occasion we sat down with Park Rangers Jim Hollister and Andrew Fuoss of Minute Man National Historical Park. Together we explore the lead up to the battle, the actions that took place and how it effected the coming conflict. We also talk about their upcoming 250th celebration and reenactment. 

We hope you enjoy this episode and learn something new about this world shaping event!

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General Recommended Reading

The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy

Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns

*All materials are affiliated links that earn the show commission. Using these links helps support the podcast. Thank you.

Join us for the second part of our introduction to 18th century warfare! In this conversation we focus on the tactics and military leadership of the time. This episode helps set the groundwork for all the conversations we'll be having the future. 

If you missed Part I check it out to learn about the structure and social order of armies. 

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General Recommended Reading

The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy

Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns

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In honor of St. Patrick's Day, we focus on the service of Irish soldiers in foreign service. Dr. Andrew Bamford gives insight into his research about the French Irish Brigades, their lineage, combat history, and what brought them to France in the first place. Dr. Alex Burns tells us about Irish service in Austrian and American service in the 18th century. We also talk about Irish nationalism in the 18th century, Irish service in the British Army, and the reasons Irishmen go abroad to seek military careers. 

So grab some green beer and join us for an exploration of "The Witty Irishmen".

Literature mentioned in this episode.

The Lilies and the Thistle, By Dr. Andrew Bamford

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General Recommended Reading

The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy

Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns

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In this episode, we take some time to contextualize our time period. In part 1 we'll be exploring some of the social aspects of 18th century armies. Who are the men and officers? How are historic conflicts different from modern ones? How do these aspects differ between countries?

If you are looking to learn more about the men who fought the battles in the 18th century this is a great place to start!

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review — we'd love to hear your thoughts!

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Andrew asking listeners to join War Room.

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General Recommended Reading

The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy

Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns

*All materials are affiliated links that earn the show commission. Using these links helps support the podcast. Thank you.

Our premier episode! In this episode, we meet our hosts, Alex, Andrew, and Lee, and talk about the amazing time period we'll be focusing on. Whether you're a longtime military history buff or just getting into it, we're thrilled to have you with us. So grab your headphones, sit back, and join us as we explore the military history, strategy, and tactics of the 18th century.

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review — we'd love to hear your thoughts!

Follow us on X: https://x.com/PrimeandLoad

Text the show!

Support the show

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General Recommended Reading

The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy

Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns

*All materials are affiliated links that earn the show commission. Using these links helps support the podcast. Thank you.