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Collection Reference Number GLC02437.01952
From Archive Folder The Henry Knox Papers [0054] 14-28 February 1783 
Title Friedrich von Steuben to Henry Knox on the subject of peace and ensuring the army gets paid
Date 25 February 1783
Author Von Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm August Heinrich Ferdinand (1730-1794)  
Recipient Knox, Henry  
Document Type Correspondence; Military document
Content Description Written by Major General von Steuben to Major General Knox. Reports that "In all proba[b]ility the Peace is signed." Says "At present all our lost Battles are turned to Victories. Great Britain acknowledges our Independence, may other nations acknowledge that we are worthy to be free." Says America's first impressions are important as they will decide "whether we shall be respected as an Empire or be despised as a Banditti." Says the situation of the army and the news of peace are all that are talked about. Wants to know what will happen if Congress disperses the army without pay. Presents a plan for Knox's consideration: after peace is officially announced, wants the army to present an address to Congress that is strongly worded, "that neither Officers nor soldiers have the least doubt that there services will be recompensed." Says Washington should also take an address to Congress. Claims "This demand will shelter Congress from the unjust claims of the people." Has also reported this plan to General McDougall.
Subjects Newburgh Conspiracy  Revolutionary War  Revolutionary War General  Immigration and Migration  Freedom and Independence  Military History  Continental Army  Global History and Civics  Diplomacy  Treaty  Continental Congress  Congress  Soldier's Pay  Finance  Pension  President  Government and Civics  
People Von Steuben, Friedrich Wilhelm August Heinrich Ferdinand (1730-1794)  
Place written Schuylkill, Pennsylvania
Theme The American Revolution; Government & Politics; Creating a New Government; Foreign Affairs
Sub-collection The Henry Knox Papers
Copyright The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
Module Settlement, Commerce, Revolution and Reform: 1493-1859
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