Battle of Cowpens (Battle Analysis) Free Essay Example, 1500 words

The American soldiers under control of Colonel Morgan were mainly dressed in blue while the America’s militia had no designated uniform and wore any form of cloth. The British armed themselves with muskets and bayonets similar to the American troops while the militias armed themselves with rifles. Moncure (1996) suggests that the British soldiers deployed in a typical European fashion. Two troops stationed at the extreme left flank commanded by Captain Ogilvie. On the infantry line were seventh Fusiliers accompanied by companies of light infantry (numbering about 500 in quantity) with two cannons interspersed among the infantry. Seventh Light Dragoons numbering about 50 troopers stationed to the right of the infantries. Most of the infantries were mere recruits and were hardly crack troops and the whole troop accompanied by Royal Artilleries. The American regiments were comprised of Maryland and Delaware continentals, Washington’s dragoons, and militias from Virginia, North Carolina and Georgia of varying numbers. Mission Command The American militia and soldiers were under the command of Colonel Daniel Morgan supported by several militias and colonels. Aged 44, Morgan was considered the oldest in the Continental Army. We will write a custom essay sample on Battle of Cowpens (Battle Analysis) or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now He had vast experience in military warfare having served as a Wagoner for Edward Braddock. He earned his promotion to serve as Colonel after displaying exemplary performance when he headed the first riffle company, his choice as a lead to the army propelled by his courage, a unique understanding of the psychology of his unit, and a strong understanding of war tactics. With this personality and military background, Morgan prepared himself with the task ahead of him. His commanding staff and the discipline of the units under him in terms of organization, training and efficiency further contributed to his success. His choice of the battlefield, earlier arrival to the battlefield and positioning his units in the battalion contributed to his victory as it positioned him away from the Cornwallis and the threat of the enemy surrounding him. Moreover, such an arrangement would give his soldiers enough time to congregate for the war. Equally, the leadersâ₠¬â„¢ loyalty to Morgan during the battle helped in achieving the victory for the Americans. The Battle Action Morgan tactically and skillfully positioned his soldiers at the Hannah’s Cowpens in the South Carolina. Moncure (1996) asserts that the Virginians deployed tactically on the battlefield as if to act like a shock absorber facing the Southeast direction.