
About this episode
They were the Hessians, the most feared professional soldiers of the 18th century, and they had come for blood. On October 22, 1777, an army of 1,200 mercenaries marched on a small, muddy fort defended by just 400 American rebels. The attack was supposed to be a swift, brutal lesson in European military might; instead, it became a shocking humiliation.
This is the story of the Battle of Red Bank, a desperate defense that turned into one of the most stunning underdog victories of the American Revolution. Join us as we explore how Colonel Christopher Greene and his small garrison at Fort Mercer defied impossible odds, inflicting a bloody repulse on Colonel von Donop's elite grenadiers. From the fort's clever design to the sheer determination of its defenders, we'll break down how this impossible victory was achieved.
Thanks to our monthly supporters- Dan
Get every episode summarized
Each time History Distilled publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from History Distilled

The Burning of Falmouth: The Fire That Forged the Declaration of Independence
History Distilled

The 1775 Invasion of Canada: The Siege of Fort St. Jean
History Distilled

How 1,200 Farmers Bled an Empire: The Battle of Bunker Hill
History Distilled

The Battle of Chelsea Creek: How a Raid for Supplies Became a Naval Triumph
History Distilled