Sneak Peek of The Patriot War

Take a sneak peek at “The Patriot War Along the New York-Canada Border: Raiders & Rebels” by Shaun J. McLaughlin.

“I would rather die than be branded a coward. Whatever might be the issue, we ought to meet it as men fighting in a good cause.”  –Captain Daniel Heustis

The History Press is pleased to announce the publication of The Patriot War along the New York-Canada Border: Raiders and Rebels by Shaun J. McLaughlin.

2012 marks the 175th anniversary of the Patriot War—a time when bands of Canadian colonists took up arms in the pursuit of responsible government. Their rebellion is not surprising given the political realities of 1837. That a legion of Americans took up their cause with force and vigor is, on the surface, puzzling.

With the Revolutionary War’s hardships and wounds still festering, the Americans would choose this war of ideals against the greatest military power of the time. The Patriot War would leave an indelible stamp upon the New York-Canada border; it would unite the laymen of Canada and northern New York against tyrannical British rule; it would inspire New York’s very own pirate to come out of retirement and fight alongside his compatriots.

Bill Johnston, a notorious pirate local, helped lead the cause by first dismantling a British raid of the 1000 Islands in April 1838. His appearance marked a turning point in the Patriot War: although never officially declared, New York’s involvement would be major in scope. Most notably, the bloodiest battle of the war—a five-day siege of a hamlet in Canada across from Ogdensburg—saw the death of many combatants, the execution of 11 Americans and the exile to Tasmania for 60 others. In May of 1838 Johnston was to capture a British steamer—he burned it instead. As passions enlivened so did battles, raids and intrigues. The Hunters Lodge, the largest of five secret societies started during the war, was formed to stealthily help finance the soldiers.

Balancing politics and culture with military history, McLaughlin makes The Patriot War accessible to casual readers and history buffs alike. McLaughlin’s narration is as lively to read as a page-turning novel and offers insight into the little-known war that President Van Buren ignored.

The Patriot War along the New York-Canada Border: Raiders and Rebels will retail for $19.99 and be available throughout New York, Lower Canada and online at www.historypress.net.