The Common Soldier

Even when they were not fighting, soldiers in the War of 1812 suffered great hardships. These included poor pay, harsh discipline, extreme temperatures, rampant disease, and inadequate food, clothing, housing, and equipment. And if they were captured by the enemy, things often grew even worse. In this episode, Steve and James push “Pause” on the narrative of battles and put you in the boots of a common soldier. What did soldiers eat and drink? What kind of equipment did they have? What did they do when not in combat? What was War of 1812 combat like? What would happen if they became prisoners? We will answer these and many more questions.