American General Horatio Gates, by Gilbert Stuart (c.1793-4)
Now let's meet American General Horatio Gates. English-born General Gates had previously served in the British Army and at the outbreak of the revolution was one of the few American senior officers with battlefield experience. He was older (50 years), snobbish, formal and fussy, earning him the nickname , behind his back, of "Granny Gates." But in 1776, he had proved himself a valuable officer, and in 1777 Gates was appointed commander of the Northern Department of the American Army. Serving under Gates were some of the best senior officers in the army. Together they and their men prepared to meet Burgoyne's forces.
Met Museum
