STEUBEN, Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard, Augustin, Baron von. Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States. Part I [all published]. [Hartford: Patten, 1783]. 12mo. (7 3/4 x 4 1/2 inches). 108pp. 5 (OF 8) engraved folding plates LACKS PLATES 1, 7 AND 8. Late 19th-century sheep binding. Boards detached. Title page torn with loss.

The principal military manual of the American Revolution.

The German-born Steuben, well trained in the highly disciplined military system developed under Frederick the Great, served as inspector general of the Continental Army. In this capacity, he wrote his Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States on orders from the Continental Congress. First published in 1779, the work became the standard text for the Continental Army and the United States Army into the early 19th century. Fifty editions, abridgements, extracts, and adaptations were printed before 1800. Steuben's contribution to American independence cannot be underestimated. He was unrivaled among the citizens of the new nation as an expert on military affairs. His introduction of European military concepts to the Continental army marks the beginning of a truly professional military tradition in the United States (ANB).

Sabin 91395; Evans 18267; Howes S951, aa.