Hessians were

approximately 30,000 German soldiers hired by the British to fight during the American Revolution (1776–1783). Primarily from Hessen-Kassel, these professional, disciplined troops were feared for their fighting prowess. They fought in major battles like Trenton, but many remained in the US after the war.

Who Were the Hessian Soldiers?

Nationality: They were German soldiers from several principalities within the Holy Roman Empire, not just Hesse-Kassel. Other states included Hessen-Hanau, Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel, Anhalt-Zerbst, Ansbach-Bayreuth, and Waldeck.

Approximately 5,000 to 6,000 Hessian soldiers deserted or defected from the British Army during the American Revolutionary War

, with roughly one-third of the 30,000 total mercenaries choosing to stay in America. Motivated by better economic opportunities, land grants, and freedom from harsh discipline, many settled in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia.

Key Aspects of Hessian Defection:

Encouragement: The Continental Congress encouraged defection by offering 50 acres of land to Hessians who left the British.

Reasons for Desertion: Many were not fighting for a cause they believed in, were attracted to the prosperous American life, or found common ground with German-speaking communities.

Settlement: Many defected or stayed after being held as prisoners of war (POWs), often working on farms and integrating into local communities.

Numbers: Out of roughly 30,000 soldiers sent by German princes, over 7,500 died, and around 17,300 returned home, leaving a significant portion who remained in North America.

Assimilation: Deserters often married locally and became American citizens, with some even joining the Continental Army.