The birth of the Army: Two and a half centuries of service

FORT JACKSON, SOUTH CAROLINA, UNITED STATES

03.13.2025

Courtesy Story

Fort Jackson Public Affairs Office

By Henry Howe
Director, Fort Jackson Museum Community

On June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress established the Continental Army, marking the beginning of what would become the United States Army. This formation occurred during a difficult period when colonists—comprising of farmers, blacksmiths, and merchants—responded to the call to defend their rights and liberty against British rule.

The first American Soldiers were not professional military men, but ordinary people driven by a deep commitment to freedom. They stood up to one of the strongest armies of the time, not just to protest taxes, or imperial control, but to fight for the right to govern themselves. Their struggle was about more than independence, it was about building a nation where future generations could live freely.

Despite facing significant obstacles such as shortages of weaponry, training, and supplies, the resolve of the Continental Army remained strong. The British Army’s reputation as a disciplined and experienced fighting force presented a formidable challenge; however, the soldiers of the Continental Army found strength in their shared ideals and a dedication to their cause. They envisioned a nation built on principles of liberty and equality.

The sacrifices made by these soldiers on the battlefield were instrumental in laying the groundwork for the independence of the United States. The courage and commitment demonstrated by the Continental Soldiers set important precedents in military and national identity. The establishment of the Army in June 1775 marked the beginning of a struggle for a cause that transcended individual interests, embodying the ongoing fight for freedom that continues to resonate today.

• Date Taken: 03.13.2025
• Date Posted: 03.13.2025 10:22
• Story ID: 492726
• Location: FORT JACKSON, SOUTH CAROLINA, US