John Sullivan, American General

John Sullivan (February 17, 1740 - January 23, 1795) was an American General, a delegate in the Continental Congress, Governor of New Hampshire and a federal judge. In 1776, Washington sent Sullivan north to replace the fallen John Thomas as commander in Quebec. He took command of the sick and faltering invasion force and mounted an unsuccessful counterattack against the British. Congress sought a scapegoat for the failed invasion of Canada, but Sullivan was exonerated and promoted to major general. He rejoined Washington and was placed in command of the troops on Long Island to defend against British General Howe's forces. He engaged the Hessian attackers with a pistol in each hand; however, he was captured. He was released in a prisoner exchange in time to rejoin Washington before the Battle of Trenton. There his division secured the important bridge over the Assunpink Creek to the south of the town. This prevented escape and ensured the high number of Hessian prisoners captured. He also performed well in the Battle of Princeton. In 1779, Sullivan led the Sullivan Expedition, a massive campaign against the Iroquois. Tired and again opposed by Congress, he retired from the army in 1779 and returned to New Hampshire. He he died in 1795 at the age of 54

Restrictions Only for Ireland and United Kingdom

1700s 1740 1795 Continental Delegate Eighteenth

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