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The Government of Canada Recognizes the Contribution of the German Troops to the Defence of Canada During the American Revolution
Parks Canada news release, 28 Aug 09
News release link - .pdf of news release, backgrounder also attached
QUEBEC CITY, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Aug. 28, 2009) - Mr. Daniel Petit, Member of Parliament for Charlesbourg-Haute-Saint-Charles, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Canada's Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today unveiled a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating the national historic significance of the contribution of the German troops to the defence of Canada during the American Revolution (1776-1783).
"I am very proud to be commemorating these troops that formed an essential part of Canada's military defence system at a pivotal moment in our history. Their valiant efforts will be recognized by present and future generations," said Mr. Petit.
Between 1776 and 1783, German troops in British service played a key role in the defence of Canada, at times comprising one-third to one-half of the British forces. They helped reconquer territory taken by the American rebels and, in 1777, took part in General John Burgoyne's failed invasion of American-controlled territory. After 1778, they formed an essential part of the defensive system, contributing most notably to improving fortifications. One quarter of these 10,000 soldiers settled in Canada after the war, their descendants numbering in the tens of thousands today.
"These 10,000 soldiers contributed twice over. Not only did they bravely protect our country, but the great numbers that settled throughout Quebec and the rest of Canada contributed significantly to the development of the country," said Minister Prentice.
On behalf of the people of Canada, Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that commemorate persons, places and events that have shaped Canada's history and which offer visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discovery.
Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment about the national historic significance of persons, places and events that have marked Canada's history. The presentation of a commemorative plaque represents official recognition of their historic value to the country.
Parks Canada news release, 28 Aug 09
News release link - .pdf of news release, backgrounder also attached
QUEBEC CITY, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Aug. 28, 2009) - Mr. Daniel Petit, Member of Parliament for Charlesbourg-Haute-Saint-Charles, on behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Canada's Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today unveiled a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating the national historic significance of the contribution of the German troops to the defence of Canada during the American Revolution (1776-1783).
"I am very proud to be commemorating these troops that formed an essential part of Canada's military defence system at a pivotal moment in our history. Their valiant efforts will be recognized by present and future generations," said Mr. Petit.
Between 1776 and 1783, German troops in British service played a key role in the defence of Canada, at times comprising one-third to one-half of the British forces. They helped reconquer territory taken by the American rebels and, in 1777, took part in General John Burgoyne's failed invasion of American-controlled territory. After 1778, they formed an essential part of the defensive system, contributing most notably to improving fortifications. One quarter of these 10,000 soldiers settled in Canada after the war, their descendants numbering in the tens of thousands today.
"These 10,000 soldiers contributed twice over. Not only did they bravely protect our country, but the great numbers that settled throughout Quebec and the rest of Canada contributed significantly to the development of the country," said Minister Prentice.
On behalf of the people of Canada, Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that commemorate persons, places and events that have shaped Canada's history and which offer visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discovery.
Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment about the national historic significance of persons, places and events that have marked Canada's history. The presentation of a commemorative plaque represents official recognition of their historic value to the country.