Soldiers in King Philip's War

George M. Bodge chronicles the wars with the Native Americans in the 17th century, with lists of the men who fought and died in conflicts ranging over decades.

The American colonies originally arrived in peace, with coastal villages and townships forming the initial foothold of European settlers and migrants. Although the trading relationships established with certain Native American tribes strengthened the ties and friendship between the white settlers and natives, other tribes were suspicious and untrusting. This animosity soon resulted in open warfare; the Pequot tribe being the most notable aggressors.

Over the 17th century, the British colonies in New England grew in significance and size. However their original, essentially civilian venture would gradually become complimented by a military defence. Militias were organized, with many able-bodied men - often simple farmers or laborers - receiving basic combat training with muskets and melee weapons, in case conflicts flared anew.

This history book is astonishing in its thoroughness, capturing the events of the era with correspondences and lists of names of men who served. The increasing military organization - symbolized by the appearance of lieutenants and captains in the ranks - of the colonial peoples are shown, with the lists growing in size as the decades pass.

George Madison Bodge was born in Maine, serving as an army volunteer during the early stages of the American Civil War. After departing his military service, Bodge chose to follow his father's footsteps and study divinity - although primarily a man of God, his interest in New England's early history would result in detailed and well-received books such as this.