General Thomas Posey

Revolutionary War General Thomas Posey (1750-1818) lived his life through one of the most dramatic periods in American history. An advocate of the Revolutionary cause, Posey's military career was highlighted by his participation in the seizure of the fort at Stony Point in 1779 and his role in the defeat of British generals "Gentleman Johnny" Burgoyne and Charles Cornwallis at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. Following the colonial victory in 1783, Posey played an active role in the development of the Transappalachian West, taking part in local and regional politics in several states and territories. His experiences on the late eighteenth- and early nineteenth-century American frontier were varied and, in a certain sense, extraordinary. Serving as Indian agent in Illinois Territory, as U.S. Senator from Louisiana, as Lieutenant-Governor of Kentucky, and as Governor of Indiana during its transition from territorial status to statehood, he supported and aided in advancement of the young nation. Throughout his lifetime, Posey was personally associated with six presidents, as well as with most national political figures of the era. A sketch of Thomas Posey's childhood in Virginia includes the biographer's speculation on the contrasting influences of his ne'er-do-well father, Captain John Posey, and the family's close friend and neighbor, General George Washington. Finally, the author offers analyses of the popular nineteenth-century speculation that Thomas Posey was George Washington's illegitimate son. In summary, Thomas Posey: Son of the American Revolution presents a fascinating look into life in the newly independent nation.