Banastre Tarleton
A ruthless British cavalry commander whose brutal tactics in the American South made him one of the Revolution's most hated and effective foes.
1754–1833 (age 79)·British general and hero of the American War of Independence·Birthday: August 21
Biography
Banastre Tarleton was a young, ambitious cavalry officer who embraced the dirty work of Britain's southern campaign during the American Revolution. Leading a mixed force of loyalists known as the British Legion, he became famous for relentless pursuit and shocking violence. His reputation was cemented at the Battle of Waxhaws in 1780, where his men were accused of massacring surrendering Continental soldiers, an event patriots dubbed 'Tarleton's Quarter.' This notoriety made him a potent symbol of British cruelty, fueling rebel recruitment. While a skilled and daring tactician, his aggressive style sometimes led to overextension, most famously at the Battle of Cowpens, where his legion was decimated. After the war, he returned to Britain a hero, parlayed his military fame into a long political career in Parliament, and was eventually knighted. History remembers him less as a hero and more as a brilliantly brutal instrument of a failing war policy.
#1 When Banastre Was Born
The biggest hits of 1754
Banastre's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1754Born
1759Started school
1767Became a teenager
1770Could drive
1772Could vote
1775Turned 21
1784Turned 30
1794Turned 40
1804Turned 50
1814Turned 60
1824Turned 70
1833Died at 79
Key Achievements
- Commanded the British Legion, a formidable mixed cavalry and infantry force, during the critical southern campaign of the American Revolutionary War.
- His victory at the Battle of Waxhaws created a lasting reputation for ferocity that was used as propaganda against the British.
- Served as a Member of Parliament for Liverpool for over two decades following his military career.
- Was made a baronet in 1815 and later a full general in the British army.
Did You Know?
He was a close friend and gambling companion of the Prince of Wales, the future King George IV.
His portrait was painted by the famous artist Sir Joshua Reynolds.
He was a staunch opponent of the abolition of the slave trade during his time in Parliament.
The character Colonel William Tavington in the film 'The Patriot' is loosely based on perceptions of Tarleton.
“I fight to win, and I do not apologize for my methods.”
