Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben was born on September 17, 1730, in the fortress town of Magdeburg in the Kingdom of Prussia, modern-day Germany. He was the son of Baron Wilhelm von Steuben, a Royal Prussian Engineer. At the age of seventeen, von Steuben followed in his father's footsteps and enlisted in the Prussian Army, where he served as a Lieutenant during the Seven Years War. This early military experience would shape his future career as a war hero.
When news of the American Revolutionary War reached Europe, von Steuben saw an opportunity to lend his military expertise to the cause of American independence. In 1777, he traveled to America, where he was recruited by Benjamin Franklin to serve in the Continental Army. Von Steuben quickly rose through the ranks, eventually being appointed as a Major General in the Continental Army.
One of von Steuben's most significant contributions to the American military was his book, Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States. This drill manual became essential in training American soldiers and was used by the U.S. military for more than three decades.
During the Revolutionary War, von Steuben served as the Chief of Staff under future U.S. President George Washington. His strategic insights and military expertise were invaluable to the American cause, and he played a crucial role in training and organizing the Continental Army.
Today, von Steuben's legacy is celebrated in cities across the United States on or around his birthday, primarily by German-Americans. Von Steuben Day has become a cultural tradition honoring the contributions of this war hero to American independence.
Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben passed away on November 28, 1794, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a military leader and war hero. His contributions to the American Revolutionary War and his influence on the U.S. military continue to be remembered and celebrated to this day.