Colonial Era Dueling

#9172
D
Keymaster

Hi Keith,

Interesting thought, I haven’t pondered it much before. I’m not familiar with many others, though from light reading (http://militaryhistorynow.com/2016/11/03/pistols-at-dawn-officers-gentlemen-and-duelling-in-the-18th-and-19th-centuries/) it appears that it might have been frowned upon, and thus not as common as might be expected. (I would this it might have been a relatively usual way to settle disputes at the time, though it seems that might not be the case).

Also, I’ve read that George Washington dissuaded the practice, feeling it would lead to diminished ranks in leadership (from being shot, which would hurt the war effort.

“Humanity Dick” was quite an active dueler. I’d be curious too if anyone knows more about this

Thanks