Wabash 1791

A highly illustrated account of the first major battle of the new United States of America, a dramatic defeat at the hands of a confederation of Native American tribes. The battle of the Wabash, or St Clair's Defeat, was the greatest ever victory of American Indians over US Army forces. In 1791, Revolutionary War commander Arthur St Clair led a hastily recruited American army into Ohio in an attempt to wrest control of the area from its Indian inhabitants. Hindered by geographical ignorance, difficult terrain, bad weather, and a lack of supplies, the Americans advanced slowly through the wilderness. After a month, they reached the Wabash River, where an Indian army awaited them. On a cold November morning, the Indians attacked at dawn and three hours later the Americans fled, having suffered more than 60 percent casualties. In this book, author John F. Winkler re-examines the US Army's frontier disaster, analyzing what they did wrong and how the Indians achieved their crushing victory.

John F. Winkler lives in Columbus, Ohio, with his wife of more than 40 years. They have three children and six grandchildren. He has written many works on the history of Roman, English, and American law. He also explores forgotten historical sites in Ohio and neighboring states.

Origins of the campaign Chronology Opposing commanders Opposing armies Orders of battle Opposing plans The campaign Aftermath The battlefield today Further reading Index