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The Drillmaster of Valley Forge: The Baron de Steuben and the Making of the American Army
“A terrific biography….The dramatic story of how the American army that beat the British was forged has never been better told than in this remarkable book.”—Doris Kearns Goodwin, New York Times bestselling author of Team of Rivals
The true story of the Baron de Steuben and the making of the American Army, The Drillmaster of Valley Forge is the first biography in half a century of the immigrant Prussian soldier who molded George Washington’s ragged, demoralized troops into the fighting force that eventually triumphed in America’s War of Independence. Praised by renowned historian Thomas Fleming as “an important book for anyone interested in the American Revolution,” The Drillmaster of Valley Forge rights a historical wrong by finally giving a forgotten hero his well-deserved due.
The true story of the Baron de Steuben and the making of the American Army, The Drillmaster of Valley Forge is the first biography in half a century of the immigrant Prussian soldier who molded George Washington’s ragged, demoralized troops into the fighting force that eventually triumphed in America’s War of Independence. Praised by renowned historian Thomas Fleming as “an important book for anyone interested in the American Revolution,” The Drillmaster of Valley Forge rights a historical wrong by finally giving a forgotten hero his well-deserved due.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2008
168 people are currently reading
1680 people want to read
About the author
Paul Lockhart
10 books26 followersPaul Lockhart is a history professor at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. His first four books are about the history of Scandinavia, but in 2006 he decided to write for a broader audience and hence returned to his roots in early American history. His fifth book, THE DRILLMASTER OF VALLEY FORGE: THE BARON DE STEUBEN AND THE MAKING OF THE AMERICAN ARMY (HarperCollins, 2008), was his first wide-release title.
Lockhart's latest book, THE WHITES OF THEIR EYES: BUNKER HILL, THE FIRST AMERICAN ARMY, AND THE EMERGENCE OF GEORGE WASHINGTON (HarperCollins, 2011), tells the story of that famous battle and challenges some of the most enduring myths -- and misperceptions -- about that battle.
Paul Lockhart lives near Dayton, Ohio, with his wife, Mary, and their five-year-old son, Alex ... plus two cats and two dogs.
Lockhart's latest book, THE WHITES OF THEIR EYES: BUNKER HILL, THE FIRST AMERICAN ARMY, AND THE EMERGENCE OF GEORGE WASHINGTON (HarperCollins, 2011), tells the story of that famous battle and challenges some of the most enduring myths -- and misperceptions -- about that battle.
Paul Lockhart lives near Dayton, Ohio, with his wife, Mary, and their five-year-old son, Alex ... plus two cats and two dogs.
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November 5, 2016
A well-written and evenhanded biography of Steuben. Although most books don’t mention much beside his activity at Valley Forge, Lockhart gives us a great history of this colorful figure and his times. He gives us a great portrait of the baron himself, who as Lockhart shows, was quite flexible when it came to the facts of his backstory. He nevertheless demonstrated a mastery of military training and tactics. Even though he deceived everyone in order to get his job, he turned out to be pretty good at it anyway.
In Lockhart’s book, Steuben was a cheerful, extroverted blowhard, but he was also military competent--enough to be on Frederick the Great’s staff, which brought out the worst in him. The baron was basically a likeable man, but he lacked the wits and savviness required, and got himself fired, although this was also the result of a fellow officer who found Steuben too competent for his own career prospects. Not only was Steuben out of a job, he also had no money, so he became secretary, a job ill-suited for his talents and temperament. Also, he was incapable of saving any cash he managed to earn. Valley Forge turned out to be a career saver for him, even though the Continental Army was on the verge of giving up by that point; the only thing preventing mass desertions was the fact that all of the roads were covered in snow. The army was in such poor condition that they couldn’t even march in formation (unless single file counts as formation). Steuben eventually became drillmaster by default; he had never actually asked for or wanted the job originally. Fortunately, the baron adapted, although at first he would explode in rage whenever soldiers asked him “why” they had to do such and such a drill---almost every soldier asked this question. Fortunately, the baron,remarkably, learned how to turn his infamous temper on and off for effect, and his expertise, force of personality ability to understand the American soldier were crucial.
Lockhart digs into the baron’s training methods and philosophy, and Lockhart is great at highlighting Steuben’s expertise, empathy for the troops, and colorful personality. He also explores many of the issues around Steuben, such as his alleged homosexuality, of which Lockhart finds no conclusive evidence. Lockhart also examines his military command in Virginia, which is often criticized, but Lockhart argues that the baron did as well as anybody could have expected. Also, Lockhart reveals that the embellishment of his backstory was cooked up by Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane and Pierre Beaumarchais, and Steuben simply went along with it; once Steuben actually arrived at Valley Forge, he revealed the truth to Washington. After the war, Congress gave the baron land (there was plenty around following the expulsion of the Indians and loyalists) but refused to pay him the money promised; it took Washington’s and Franklin’s intervention to get Congress to pay, but he still died in debt anyway; the baron’s money problems make up a good part of the narrative. Also great is Lockhart’s treatment of two of the baron’s defining characteristics: his aristocratic background and his easy familiarity with common soldiers.
An enjoyable and readable biography, although some issues do not receive much detail, like the baron’s entertaining feud with Jefferson. The few typos are also a minor irritant.
In Lockhart’s book, Steuben was a cheerful, extroverted blowhard, but he was also military competent--enough to be on Frederick the Great’s staff, which brought out the worst in him. The baron was basically a likeable man, but he lacked the wits and savviness required, and got himself fired, although this was also the result of a fellow officer who found Steuben too competent for his own career prospects. Not only was Steuben out of a job, he also had no money, so he became secretary, a job ill-suited for his talents and temperament. Also, he was incapable of saving any cash he managed to earn. Valley Forge turned out to be a career saver for him, even though the Continental Army was on the verge of giving up by that point; the only thing preventing mass desertions was the fact that all of the roads were covered in snow. The army was in such poor condition that they couldn’t even march in formation (unless single file counts as formation). Steuben eventually became drillmaster by default; he had never actually asked for or wanted the job originally. Fortunately, the baron adapted, although at first he would explode in rage whenever soldiers asked him “why” they had to do such and such a drill---almost every soldier asked this question. Fortunately, the baron,remarkably, learned how to turn his infamous temper on and off for effect, and his expertise, force of personality ability to understand the American soldier were crucial.
Lockhart digs into the baron’s training methods and philosophy, and Lockhart is great at highlighting Steuben’s expertise, empathy for the troops, and colorful personality. He also explores many of the issues around Steuben, such as his alleged homosexuality, of which Lockhart finds no conclusive evidence. Lockhart also examines his military command in Virginia, which is often criticized, but Lockhart argues that the baron did as well as anybody could have expected. Also, Lockhart reveals that the embellishment of his backstory was cooked up by Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane and Pierre Beaumarchais, and Steuben simply went along with it; once Steuben actually arrived at Valley Forge, he revealed the truth to Washington. After the war, Congress gave the baron land (there was plenty around following the expulsion of the Indians and loyalists) but refused to pay him the money promised; it took Washington’s and Franklin’s intervention to get Congress to pay, but he still died in debt anyway; the baron’s money problems make up a good part of the narrative. Also great is Lockhart’s treatment of two of the baron’s defining characteristics: his aristocratic background and his easy familiarity with common soldiers.
An enjoyable and readable biography, although some issues do not receive much detail, like the baron’s entertaining feud with Jefferson. The few typos are also a minor irritant.
January 8, 2012
Paul Lockhart does an excellent history on how the American Army was molded during the revolution and the man whose tireless zeal and boundless energy made it happen. Often overlooked in American history the Baron de Steuben's contributions to the colonies war effort were truly astounding. It is about time we get an updated book that reassess those contributions and shows the work he did not just at Valley Forge but beyond. This book is not just a military history though and goes into the highly political situation that the American Army found itself in vis a vis Congress. From the attempt to remove Washington to even the Baron's own machinations within Congress the reader can see the complexity in which this army existed. Lockhart also does a good job of tracking down the European history of the Baron and shows the fraudulent way he presented himself in coming over to America but his own drive and skill allowed him to make up for his pedigrees shortcomings and as Lockhart shows the baron becomes the first "American story".
Lockhart, who is a skilled military historian, covers the campaigns and training programs in great detail but unlike many military historians is able to tie them back to the bigger picture making for a very fascinating read. The creation of the blue book which was the guiding principle of the American military through the war of 1812 and influenced it quite a bit beyond that was created by the Baron and his staff and is covered well in here. The idea that forms the core of the American military as also a Baron idea and its etymology is discussed in this book. Those looking for campaign details will not be disappointed as there are plenty of campaign details covered in the book especially within the NJ invasion and the southern campaign with Greene. Overall this was a very enjoyable book and well worth the time to read.
Lockhart, who is a skilled military historian, covers the campaigns and training programs in great detail but unlike many military historians is able to tie them back to the bigger picture making for a very fascinating read. The creation of the blue book which was the guiding principle of the American military through the war of 1812 and influenced it quite a bit beyond that was created by the Baron and his staff and is covered well in here. The idea that forms the core of the American military as also a Baron idea and its etymology is discussed in this book. Those looking for campaign details will not be disappointed as there are plenty of campaign details covered in the book especially within the NJ invasion and the southern campaign with Greene. Overall this was a very enjoyable book and well worth the time to read.
February 13, 2025
Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben was the son of an Prussian Army officer and as such he wanted to follow in his father's footsteps. The Drillmaster of Valley Forge: The Baron de Steuben and the Making of the American Army is the story of how he went from being such an officer to at the age of 48 becoming the drillmaster at Valley Forge and his role in the American Revolution after that.
His life is a fascinating story and I found Paul Lockhart to be a gifted biographer in creating a book, I didn't want to put down. Lockhart deftly characterizes Von Steuben bringing him to life in a way which the reader can appreciate.
Growing up in upstate New York next to Steuben County, I was happy to find out more about its namesake.
I would recommend this book to history lovers and fans of biographies.
His life is a fascinating story and I found Paul Lockhart to be a gifted biographer in creating a book, I didn't want to put down. Lockhart deftly characterizes Von Steuben bringing him to life in a way which the reader can appreciate.
Growing up in upstate New York next to Steuben County, I was happy to find out more about its namesake.
I would recommend this book to history lovers and fans of biographies.
March 8, 2025
A very interesting biography of Baron de Steuben who arrived from Europe with hopes of joining the troops of Washington and the Revolutionary War.
In The Drillmaster of Valley Forge: The Baron de Steuben and the Making of the American Army , Paul Lockhart tells the remarkable story of an extraordinary man - bring to flesh and blood life the hitherto little-known figure whose image has long been part of the iconography of our our Revolutionary heritage.
The only history I ever learned of the man was that he joined the Continental Army and was given the instructions to get them into shape. The man did so much more. Much of the instruction he gave and wrote is still a part of our armed services today.
A wonderful book that never got bogged down , making history come alive.
Highly Recommended.
In The Drillmaster of Valley Forge: The Baron de Steuben and the Making of the American Army , Paul Lockhart tells the remarkable story of an extraordinary man - bring to flesh and blood life the hitherto little-known figure whose image has long been part of the iconography of our our Revolutionary heritage.
The only history I ever learned of the man was that he joined the Continental Army and was given the instructions to get them into shape. The man did so much more. Much of the instruction he gave and wrote is still a part of our armed services today.
A wonderful book that never got bogged down , making history come alive.
Highly Recommended.
June 30, 2017
overly positive, but fascinating look at the Prussian striver who turned the continentals into a revolutionary enlightenment-era army.
February 9, 2025
Among the mythos of the American Revolution, Valley Forge is one of the best revered, as a testament to American courage, fortitude, and dedication to “the Cause” of Liberty. Aside from severe privation in frigid winter conditions, lacking adequate food and warm clothing, leaving bloody footprints from bare feet in the reddened slush of snow, and dying from disease in the hundreds, very little else is known by the average American about the Continental Army during the winter of 1777-1778, other than the soldiers having been trained by the Baron von Steuben. Despite this snippet of knowledge, the Baron is a largely unknown figure in American history. Professor Lockhart has endeavored to resurrect the man from the mists of historical obscurity in “The Drillmaster of Valley Forge”.
The Baron’s arrival in America during the winter of 1777-78 was little acknowledged by most. Many European soldiers had arrived to offer services to the Continental Army since the start of the war. Many had been bestowed with commissions as high ranking officers and toasted in lavish banquets in their honor, only to quickly be found to offer very little to “the Cause”. As a disciplined Prussian military officer, the Baron offered precisely the type of skills needed to reform the battered American forces into respectable soldiers that could stand up to Great Britain’ military might. What the Baron lacked was prestige.
Lockhart details how American ambassadors Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane conspired with French officials to embellish the Baron’s record to something far more attractive than what he truly was: an unemployed, low ranking former Prussian soldier, who had not served actively in over a decade. However, Deane and the French in particular recognized the Baron’s qualities and recommended him highly to the Continental Congress and General George Washington.
The Baron is remembered in collective memory as Baron von Steuben, which was accurate. Yet, Lockhart identifies the title he used himself as the French version Baron de Steuben. Lockhart’s research reveals a highly relatable individual, complete with both admirable qualities and many highly humanizing faults. What emerges is a fairly lovable character, that many in America embraced immediately. A long overdue work on a highly influential character of the American Revolution. Steuben has largely been ignored and under appreciated, just as he was during his own life. Lockhart relates the tale of the Baron’s death in the wilderness of the Mohawk Valley in upstate New York, buried in an unmarked grave that was forgotten for years. Yet, later, recognizing his contributions, the state of New York erected a memorial at his grave. Lockhart’s work here is the scholarly equivalent of that granite headstone.
The Baron’s arrival in America during the winter of 1777-78 was little acknowledged by most. Many European soldiers had arrived to offer services to the Continental Army since the start of the war. Many had been bestowed with commissions as high ranking officers and toasted in lavish banquets in their honor, only to quickly be found to offer very little to “the Cause”. As a disciplined Prussian military officer, the Baron offered precisely the type of skills needed to reform the battered American forces into respectable soldiers that could stand up to Great Britain’ military might. What the Baron lacked was prestige.
Lockhart details how American ambassadors Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane conspired with French officials to embellish the Baron’s record to something far more attractive than what he truly was: an unemployed, low ranking former Prussian soldier, who had not served actively in over a decade. However, Deane and the French in particular recognized the Baron’s qualities and recommended him highly to the Continental Congress and General George Washington.
The Baron is remembered in collective memory as Baron von Steuben, which was accurate. Yet, Lockhart identifies the title he used himself as the French version Baron de Steuben. Lockhart’s research reveals a highly relatable individual, complete with both admirable qualities and many highly humanizing faults. What emerges is a fairly lovable character, that many in America embraced immediately. A long overdue work on a highly influential character of the American Revolution. Steuben has largely been ignored and under appreciated, just as he was during his own life. Lockhart relates the tale of the Baron’s death in the wilderness of the Mohawk Valley in upstate New York, buried in an unmarked grave that was forgotten for years. Yet, later, recognizing his contributions, the state of New York erected a memorial at his grave. Lockhart’s work here is the scholarly equivalent of that granite headstone.
October 5, 2025
A great dedication to the woefully unrecognized Baron Steuben. this biography is a perfect fusion of storytelling and historical honesty. It makes a point to underscore the Baron's faults as well as his strengths, and tells his story in an honest light.
This book shows the Baron not just as a foul-mouthed drillmaster, but also his life as a gentleman, a soldier, and a generous friend to those close to him. I would recommend this read to anyone who is interested in the founding of the American Army, and the life of its #1 contributing founder.
This book shows the Baron not just as a foul-mouthed drillmaster, but also his life as a gentleman, a soldier, and a generous friend to those close to him. I would recommend this read to anyone who is interested in the founding of the American Army, and the life of its #1 contributing founder.
July 24, 2013
Very engaging, a fast read. I like that the author doesn't paint Steuben with overly broad strokes and admits some things about the Baron were embellishments and resume-padding, but not all of them, and not always was the Baron solely to blame. The author's very fair in that regard.
A surprisingly critical view of Lafayette, though one I have no reason to second-guess. Of course such a young general would be naive and foolhardy at times, it's only in the myth/lore of him that he's idealized (even by me). Similarly, Jefferson comes across as a total bureaucrat but it's somewhat consistent with other reading I've done (and I think his attitude evolves and he's more a doer once he's in the role of President).
What struck me most is that Steuben is essentially a consultant. He has mastered a particular trade of value (Prussian soldiering) and randomly stumbles upon those in need of his expertise and makes a name for himself just by teaching everyone what is common knowledge among many he knows. Granted, he also has a passion and a drive to do his job thoroughly, but ultimately, he's a consultant (and a poorly paid one).
One minor complaint is that the author is a bit too defensive at times. He writes as if he's confronting fellow academics, forgetting that the vast majority of us don't care about squabbles between academics.
A surprisingly critical view of Lafayette, though one I have no reason to second-guess. Of course such a young general would be naive and foolhardy at times, it's only in the myth/lore of him that he's idealized (even by me). Similarly, Jefferson comes across as a total bureaucrat but it's somewhat consistent with other reading I've done (and I think his attitude evolves and he's more a doer once he's in the role of President).
What struck me most is that Steuben is essentially a consultant. He has mastered a particular trade of value (Prussian soldiering) and randomly stumbles upon those in need of his expertise and makes a name for himself just by teaching everyone what is common knowledge among many he knows. Granted, he also has a passion and a drive to do his job thoroughly, but ultimately, he's a consultant (and a poorly paid one).
One minor complaint is that the author is a bit too defensive at times. He writes as if he's confronting fellow academics, forgetting that the vast majority of us don't care about squabbles between academics.
January 17, 2020
This is an excellent biography of a critical figure in the battle for independence. Baron de Steuben is mostly remembered for the three months he spent raising the morale and training of the patriots in the terrible winter at Valley Forge. But he also wrote "The Blue Book," a manual of army regulations and procedures that was still in use by the War of 1812. It was his idea for a standing peacetime army to be supplemented as needed by state militias. It was also his idea that led to the creation of the all of the service academies. Steuben accomplished all of this as a stranger in strange land, navigating the horrible politics that constantly threatened to bring down George Washington. There was a continuous battle with Congress to provide basic food, clothing and arms for the troops. This book shows how absolutely amazing it is that our democracy emerged from the Revolutionary War.
April 7, 2022
When I was a kid I learned about Baron Friederich Von Steuben from a middle school class documentary on the Revolutionary War wherein he received brief mention. I heard of him perhaps once or twice more. He was Prussian, profane, taught the Continental Troops the basics of drill and was possibly gay. That was all I knew.
Lockhart brought Von Steuben to life for me, adding flesh to his bones and gracing me with his personality. The Baron was far more than just "The Drill Master Of Valley Forge". Von Steuben was extraordinarily talented, ambitious, driven, intellectually gifted, charming and fearless. His work was indispensable to the young Republic, and he never received the full recognition from Congress that he so richly deserved. He did, however, have George Washington's full confidence, and stood with the general the day he was sworn in as the first President of the United States.
Lockhart is a very good writer. He has at least five other books in publication that I'm going to try to find for an affordable price. He snagged me.
And I know have a burgeoning interest in the Prussian military and its leadership.
Lockhart brought Von Steuben to life for me, adding flesh to his bones and gracing me with his personality. The Baron was far more than just "The Drill Master Of Valley Forge". Von Steuben was extraordinarily talented, ambitious, driven, intellectually gifted, charming and fearless. His work was indispensable to the young Republic, and he never received the full recognition from Congress that he so richly deserved. He did, however, have George Washington's full confidence, and stood with the general the day he was sworn in as the first President of the United States.
Lockhart is a very good writer. He has at least five other books in publication that I'm going to try to find for an affordable price. He snagged me.
And I know have a burgeoning interest in the Prussian military and its leadership.
November 8, 2025
This quote from Baron de Steuben was about the difference in politics between the start and the end of the Revolutionary War, but it still rings true:
“A republic worked well when its leaders were virtuous, when they held the common good above all other considerations and interests. Now government is in the hands of those who only sought their personal gains measured in dollars.”
“A republic worked well when its leaders were virtuous, when they held the common good above all other considerations and interests. Now government is in the hands of those who only sought their personal gains measured in dollars.”
July 16, 2025
Pretty good book about him with lots of sources.
July 6, 2020
OUTSTANDING ! Paul Lockhart's does a thorough job in describing the necessary, ( to the success of America in the Revolutionary War ) and masterful contributions of Baron de Steuben. With an albeit relatively general overview of the Baron's life prior to his arrival in America, it is nonetheless sufficient. Lockhart deftly describes the plethora of obstacles faced by Washington in turning the Continental Army into and effective fighting force. It is, armed with these facts, that the reader can obtain some sense of the incredible contributions of the Baron de Steuben. The Baron's extensive military knowledge is highlighted by the author's detailed descriptions of the training in drill and etiquette. Lockhart provides coverage of the Baron's actual battle participation, but the truly masterful job by the author is presented in the in depth presentation of Baron de Steuben's unending battle with congress to obtain justified as well as remedial compensation for his VITAL contributions to this country's freedom. The reader will discover, with no doubt, the gross miscarriage of integrity and responsibility of the Continental Congress in regards to it's interaction with the Baron. I found this book to be, what I consider, a MUST READ to anyone interested in the founding of our country. Bravo Paul Lockhart !
October 29, 2019
This book is so full of great information it's hard to know what to say about it. Steuben deserves as much credit as anyone of our enlightened fathers who helped America to independence. If you like history and biographical novels, this interesting and well written book is for you!
February 20, 2023
Excellent book on a professional who helped build the necessary foundations for emerging US Army.
Author's style is fantastic, what might be a rather dry topic with ever going list of names and contemporaries is actually a beautifully written and engaging story of a professional man who devoted his entire life to profession of arms.
Born and raised in strict discipline of Prussia, von Stauben found himself in that limbo many professional soldier is terrified of (even today, current events testifying to it) - lack of wars. This forced him to seek employment elsewhere but not being high in rank although with very extensive military experience (that would make him promoted in more, lets call it active, periods) he was not what you might call a catch for military offices of European countries.
This set him towards the brewing troubles in English colonies in the New World, and here he will make name of himself. As it comes with every professional man he will fight the bureaucracy and politicians, people who want to avoid full commitment if possible (and wars are not times for this) and jealous colleagues who wanted to bring him down either directly or indirectly (von Steuben being collateral damage of efforts aimed against Washington and his supporters). He will weather all of this, and succeed with help of his friends.
I like how author always tries to give us von Steuben, the man, not only the military officer. His commitment to people he led, train and lived with is a testament to his professionalism. Steuben worked to provide the newborn army with practical advice and training, without elements that played no part in the field. In this he succeeded, providing guidebooks for training, making sure officers are involved with their men, making sure basic tenants of force deployment, encampment (his constant critique of relaxed camp guards) and most importantly logistics are followed (his efforts to raise troops in Virginia were truly herculean). It is not that he made any breakthroughs in the military science. No, he did what geniuses usually do - he integrated the knowledge into usable, practical and easily understandable units and made sure that they are thought to everyone, from officers to lowly private. This raised level of military capabilty of Washington's troops in a relatively short time.
Excellent book about a very interesting and extraordinary professional - man who was never quite understood outside the military milieu, man who kept private life for himself, cherished his friends immensely, but due to sporadic outbursts of bad temper remained the enigma to many (not to mention he was even marked as mercenary by his opposition which was truly a case of injustice and slander in my opinion).
Highly recommended.
Author's style is fantastic, what might be a rather dry topic with ever going list of names and contemporaries is actually a beautifully written and engaging story of a professional man who devoted his entire life to profession of arms.
Born and raised in strict discipline of Prussia, von Stauben found himself in that limbo many professional soldier is terrified of (even today, current events testifying to it) - lack of wars. This forced him to seek employment elsewhere but not being high in rank although with very extensive military experience (that would make him promoted in more, lets call it active, periods) he was not what you might call a catch for military offices of European countries.
This set him towards the brewing troubles in English colonies in the New World, and here he will make name of himself. As it comes with every professional man he will fight the bureaucracy and politicians, people who want to avoid full commitment if possible (and wars are not times for this) and jealous colleagues who wanted to bring him down either directly or indirectly (von Steuben being collateral damage of efforts aimed against Washington and his supporters). He will weather all of this, and succeed with help of his friends.
I like how author always tries to give us von Steuben, the man, not only the military officer. His commitment to people he led, train and lived with is a testament to his professionalism. Steuben worked to provide the newborn army with practical advice and training, without elements that played no part in the field. In this he succeeded, providing guidebooks for training, making sure officers are involved with their men, making sure basic tenants of force deployment, encampment (his constant critique of relaxed camp guards) and most importantly logistics are followed (his efforts to raise troops in Virginia were truly herculean). It is not that he made any breakthroughs in the military science. No, he did what geniuses usually do - he integrated the knowledge into usable, practical and easily understandable units and made sure that they are thought to everyone, from officers to lowly private. This raised level of military capabilty of Washington's troops in a relatively short time.
Excellent book about a very interesting and extraordinary professional - man who was never quite understood outside the military milieu, man who kept private life for himself, cherished his friends immensely, but due to sporadic outbursts of bad temper remained the enigma to many (not to mention he was even marked as mercenary by his opposition which was truly a case of injustice and slander in my opinion).
Highly recommended.
November 26, 2019
This was an enjoyable read for me. The first part of the book deals with Steuben’s youth and years in the Prussian army under Fredrick the Great where he distinguished himself. However, he was not as successful during peacetime. He racketed around Europe for several years until he landed in Paris, France and met Silas Deane and Benjamin Franklin, who recruited him to help with the Continental Army. Fearing that Congress would not accept the Baron as is, Franklin, Deane, and others invented a more exciting background for the 48-year-old soldier. Congress granted approval, and after arriving in the US Steuben was assigned to help George Washington at Valley Forge. Steuben was appalled by the living conditions of the men, who had very little clothing or food, and were plagued by disease. As a cure for the latter problem, one of the first things that Steuben did was to demand that latrines not be dug right next to where the meals were prepared. I laughed out loud when I read that little tidbit. What seems so obvious to us now as a health issue, was normal practice during the Revolutionary War.
Steuben recognized a need for uniformity in training and drilling. He also observed that the soldiers of the Continental Army were unlike any others he had encountered previously. They were not browbeaten laborers, but independent thinkers who wanted to understand the reasoning behind the drilling. Steuben immediately began to familiarize himself with the men, which he did with the aid of an interpreter since he did not speak English. With Washington’s approval, Steuben created what he called a “model company” that consisted of handpicked men from various brigades who were trained and then would be able to train others. In this way, a uniform system for drilling and training soldiers began to be enforced.
In 1778/79 Steuben worked tirelessly to prepare his now-famous “Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States” (nicknamed the Blue Book because it was printed on blue paper due to the printer’s lack of white paper). Several items from the Blue Book are still in use today. I think I will have a look at the “Blue Book” and see what it’s like.
Although it’s obvious that the author favors Steuben, I appreciated his decision to show us both sides of the Baron’s personality, complete with flaws and imperfections, of which he had many. Still, I liked the bombastic fellow, and someday, I would like to visit his grave. His final wish was to be buried in an unmarked grave, but when a highway was being planned, which would go over his final resting place, his friends had him disinterred and moved to Remsen, New York
Steuben recognized a need for uniformity in training and drilling. He also observed that the soldiers of the Continental Army were unlike any others he had encountered previously. They were not browbeaten laborers, but independent thinkers who wanted to understand the reasoning behind the drilling. Steuben immediately began to familiarize himself with the men, which he did with the aid of an interpreter since he did not speak English. With Washington’s approval, Steuben created what he called a “model company” that consisted of handpicked men from various brigades who were trained and then would be able to train others. In this way, a uniform system for drilling and training soldiers began to be enforced.
In 1778/79 Steuben worked tirelessly to prepare his now-famous “Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States” (nicknamed the Blue Book because it was printed on blue paper due to the printer’s lack of white paper). Several items from the Blue Book are still in use today. I think I will have a look at the “Blue Book” and see what it’s like.
Although it’s obvious that the author favors Steuben, I appreciated his decision to show us both sides of the Baron’s personality, complete with flaws and imperfections, of which he had many. Still, I liked the bombastic fellow, and someday, I would like to visit his grave. His final wish was to be buried in an unmarked grave, but when a highway was being planned, which would go over his final resting place, his friends had him disinterred and moved to Remsen, New York
July 12, 2025
(This same review was posted to Amazon under my personal account.)
Up front, yes it's kind of dry. What do you expect from a biography of somebody who lived more than 200 years ago?
But, wow, informative.
I am blown away at the impact de Steuben had on history, and I'd never even heard his name before.
The Baron de Steuben was a military man, had his career upbringing in Frederick the Great's army in Prussia. Due circumstances beyond Steuben's control, there was an outbreak of peace, which ultimately terminated his career. He was a Baron, but that didn't mean he had any wealth or prestige. He was a good officer, but didn't climb the ranks like he'd hoped.
He tried to get a commission in the French army. Nothin' doin'. He spent several years in non-military posts, then eventually he looked much farther west, to the Americas...
He met Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane in Paris, asking for a commission. He was basically too late. Deane had too liberally promised commissions to foreigners, and Congress didn't want any more.
But de Steuben got Franklin & Deane to really believe in him. They couldn't promise a commission, but they wrote letters recommending him, and maybe really exaggerated his military accomplishments.
Anyway, he crosses the Atlantic and he winds up at Valley Forge. He gets in with Washington, who quickly sees that this German guy--who didn't speak English yet, so his staff included an interpreter!--actually knew a lot of military craft, which the Continental army desperately needed. So Washington makes him unofficial Drillmaster...
After a few months, he became the actual IG, with a rank much higher than he ever held in Prussia!
He trains the Continental army! Like, legit, unifies the drill, writes an honest-to-goodness *book* that's used as the army's manual clear through the War of 1812.
He has a huge, impactful effect on the outcome of the war, which determined America's independence from Britain.
Massive, worldwide impact from this hot-tempered Prussian.
If you made it through my review, you should read this book already.
Up front, yes it's kind of dry. What do you expect from a biography of somebody who lived more than 200 years ago?
But, wow, informative.
I am blown away at the impact de Steuben had on history, and I'd never even heard his name before.
The Baron de Steuben was a military man, had his career upbringing in Frederick the Great's army in Prussia. Due circumstances beyond Steuben's control, there was an outbreak of peace, which ultimately terminated his career. He was a Baron, but that didn't mean he had any wealth or prestige. He was a good officer, but didn't climb the ranks like he'd hoped.
He tried to get a commission in the French army. Nothin' doin'. He spent several years in non-military posts, then eventually he looked much farther west, to the Americas...
He met Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane in Paris, asking for a commission. He was basically too late. Deane had too liberally promised commissions to foreigners, and Congress didn't want any more.
But de Steuben got Franklin & Deane to really believe in him. They couldn't promise a commission, but they wrote letters recommending him, and maybe really exaggerated his military accomplishments.
Anyway, he crosses the Atlantic and he winds up at Valley Forge. He gets in with Washington, who quickly sees that this German guy--who didn't speak English yet, so his staff included an interpreter!--actually knew a lot of military craft, which the Continental army desperately needed. So Washington makes him unofficial Drillmaster...
After a few months, he became the actual IG, with a rank much higher than he ever held in Prussia!
He trains the Continental army! Like, legit, unifies the drill, writes an honest-to-goodness *book* that's used as the army's manual clear through the War of 1812.
He has a huge, impactful effect on the outcome of the war, which determined America's independence from Britain.
Massive, worldwide impact from this hot-tempered Prussian.
If you made it through my review, you should read this book already.
August 29, 2019
This is a fascinating book about one of the more recognizable names, but least well-known, figures of the Revolutionary War. Steuben is a complex personality, who was both endearing and grating. He found it easy to make acquaintances, but few ever became his friends. Ordinary soldiers loved him, politicians tended to hate his directness, and many officers were frustrated by his Prussian ways.
Aside from chronicling Steuben’s life, Lockhart also takes readers into some less well-known aspects of the Revolutionary War. His struggles in Virginia as Yorktown approached were a fascinating look at the politics of the war, and the time between the battle of Monmouth and the winter at Valley Forge is also dealt with. This latter was most enjoyable for me, as it answered a nagging question I’ve had about an area near my home town — I have finally figured out why Lafayette Hill is named for the General.
If the book has any flaws, it may be that Lockhart likes Steuben as a person a bit TOO much.
Aside from chronicling Steuben’s life, Lockhart also takes readers into some less well-known aspects of the Revolutionary War. His struggles in Virginia as Yorktown approached were a fascinating look at the politics of the war, and the time between the battle of Monmouth and the winter at Valley Forge is also dealt with. This latter was most enjoyable for me, as it answered a nagging question I’ve had about an area near my home town — I have finally figured out why Lafayette Hill is named for the General.
If the book has any flaws, it may be that Lockhart likes Steuben as a person a bit TOO much.
September 3, 2025
In the course of the American Revolution there are very few people who have the level of importance as Baron von Steuben, but also perhaps this is an individual who even in the city in Ohio named for him (Steubenville after the fort a town that is next door to where I grew up) who is not fully understood. With "The Drillmaster of Valley Forge: The Baron de Steuben and the Making of the American Army", Paul Lockhart tells the story of the famous baron from his beginnings in Prussian through his exile into the American colonies and achievements there to a death in a very simple setting. The life of Steuben is complicated and at times full of arrogance which got him into trouble among the various scandals that would plague him; however, it is the time at Valley Forge where he drilled this nascent army into the force that would eventually succeed in defeating the British army giving the American colonies their independence 250 years ago. The book is a fascinating and easy read for anyone with an interest in this individual and the role he would play.
December 4, 2021
A well written and thoroughly researched biography of a man whose contribution to the American Revolution is often overlooked. Lockhart avoids the traps that writers of this genre often fall into. His analysis of the Baron’s actions are generally well developed and, for the most part, unbiased.
De Steuben is definitely a man of the extremes. He was often brilliant and highly competent but also frequently annoying and overly sensitive. He seemed to feel that he was perpetually under appreciated and poorly compensated. In reality he probably was correct in his assessments but almost any Continental officer could have made the same complaints.
The book is a good summary of de Steuben’s military career with enough detail for nearly any Revolutionary War enthusiast. Perhaps this volume will correct the neglect that has befallen this great soldier.
De Steuben is definitely a man of the extremes. He was often brilliant and highly competent but also frequently annoying and overly sensitive. He seemed to feel that he was perpetually under appreciated and poorly compensated. In reality he probably was correct in his assessments but almost any Continental officer could have made the same complaints.
The book is a good summary of de Steuben’s military career with enough detail for nearly any Revolutionary War enthusiast. Perhaps this volume will correct the neglect that has befallen this great soldier.
July 23, 2024
Great biography on one of the often underappreciated heroes of the American War of Independence. The Baron de Steuben played an essential role in helping a struggling Continental army come into its own by bringing to it the discipline and organization that it desperately needed to stand up to an enemy that very much outclassed it beforehand. While he may not have found the recognition that he deserved during his own lifetime, Steuben service laid foundations in the army and its institutions that would shape their character for years to come.
Steuben's story is very much the classic one of an immigrant remaking themselves in a new land. By throwing himself into tirelessly working for the cause of liberty, the Baron proved himself to be just as much an American as any other who fought for the cause.
Steuben's story is very much the classic one of an immigrant remaking themselves in a new land. By throwing himself into tirelessly working for the cause of liberty, the Baron proved himself to be just as much an American as any other who fought for the cause.
February 22, 2018
I had some knowledge in passing of Baron de Steuben before reading this book, and remembered that he had contributed to the success of the American Revolution. After reading this book I now know that he contributed mightily to the ultimate victory of the fledgling country over the British. The author does an outstanding job of making Steuben a real flesh and blood person, and doesn't gloss over his flaws, although they were clearly overshadowed by his strengths. This country owes a lot to him and the book reinforces the fact that immigrants, over the course of our country's history, have made valuable and permanent benefits to our story.
March 10, 2019
Excellent, well-written biography of de Steuben and the history of his contributions to the U.S. Army's discipline, organization, and defeat of the British. The most striking thought that I take away from the book is a key difference between the army and navy given civilian control of the military. Since the navy operates in an inherently unfamiliar environment, civilians are much less likely to think they understand naval operations. However, because the army often operates in close proximity to the general population and the comparative simplicity of army missions creates the perception that what the army does is easy, which it clearly isn't.
December 12, 2019
Good for American Revolutionary War History Readers
I enjoyed reading this book because it provides a certain perspective on the Revolutionary War written with the right amount of facts and storytelling.The author pulls from original sources. I think the author for the most part was fair to Stueben, but one page he calls into question Stueben's sexual preference which I think is ridiculous and unnecessary. This demonstrates an unfortunate mindset of today's historians in which they look at the past through today's cultural lense. Stueben just walked a path a celibacy. His life love was military life and his fellow veterans.
I enjoyed reading this book because it provides a certain perspective on the Revolutionary War written with the right amount of facts and storytelling.The author pulls from original sources. I think the author for the most part was fair to Stueben, but one page he calls into question Stueben's sexual preference which I think is ridiculous and unnecessary. This demonstrates an unfortunate mindset of today's historians in which they look at the past through today's cultural lense. Stueben just walked a path a celibacy. His life love was military life and his fellow veterans.
January 9, 2024
Though I would have wished for a somewhat more compelling narrative style, there was plenty of useful information in this bio. Of most importance is the fact that Lockhart shows Steuben to be more than the rather comic figure he's become in legend (a mere puffed-up charlatan). Apparently, he had a lot to do with the success of the Continental Army and deserves credit. It's interesting to compare him with the other key foreigners, of course (Kosciuszko and Lafeyette, for example), and note the differences in personality. Kosciuszko continues to look like quite the selfless figure, the more one reads about the other guys!
January 12, 2018
Really enjoyed this book! The author gave a very detailed account of what is known of the Baron de Steuben's life, but more importantly provided a fantastic sketch of his legacy to the US military. So much of the current structure, organization and training is based on his ideas and the institutions he created. It was a fascinating read and also gives insights into other historical figures in US history, specifically Washington, Hamilton and LaFayette. Highly recommend for anyone interested in learning more about early American military history.
June 28, 2020
I had only the barest of knowledge on Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben coming into this book, but was fascinated to learn more. And indeed I learned plenty! This is a criminally underrated biography of a truly fascinating individual; someone who made himself in Prussia and reinvented himself in America. The attention to detail here is what’s most impressive and though some of the tangential information not related to von Steuben can get distracting and feels added for length, The Drillmaster of Valley Forge is nonetheless a great read for historical fans of the American Revolution.
September 10, 2021
After reading 1776 by David McCullough I was excited to continue the story of the Revolutionary War, especially after realizing how important the training received by the Continental Army was in Valley Forge. This was more of a biography, but I enjoyed learning about such an important man to the American Revolution and seeing the War through his eyes. There was also plenty of discussion on strategy and drilling and it's amazing how much of an impact he made to the success of the Continental Army.
April 9, 2018
a very interesting read, highlighting one of the lesser-mentioned and -celebrated players in the american revolution and civil beginnings of the USA. it's obvious lockhart is a fan of the baron, and seemed to err on the side of rehabilitation concerning his image and historical importance in some spots. but he also did a gargantuan amount of research, and the book is well-written. it gets 3 stars instead of 4 because of the over-plethora of colorful annecdotes in some sections, combined with the lispy/spitty elocution of the audiobook narrator, but it could have easily been 4 stars. in fact, i may re-read this the analog way later and revise my rating. if you're a fan of early USA history, give this title a try.
August 5, 2024
This was a competent read. I'm more inclined to give this 3.5 stars if it were possible. I've heard of Baron de Steuben before but knew very little about him. Among the aspects of him that I had read before were the allegations that he wasn't quite what he represented himself as far as his past in Prussia is concerned. I didn't find him to be that compelling a figure. No doubt he played an important role in the Revolutionary War but the narrative dragged at times.
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