1776

by

David McCullough

Henry Knox is one of the key commanders on the American side of the Revolutionary War. A Bostonian by birth, Knox joins the American side in 1775 and quickly becomes impressed with George Washington’s charisma and capable leadership. Knox gains Washington’s respect by recovering important British artillery from the abandoned Fort Ticonderoga. He continues to fight alongside Washington until the end of the war in 1783, and his faith in Washington’s leadership never seems to falter.
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Henry Knox Character Timeline in 1776

The timeline below shows where the character Henry Knox appears in 1776. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Chapter 2: Rabble in Arms
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...way. However, he begins working closely with two talented New Englanders: Nathanael Greene and Henry Knox, a colonel from Boston who is well-versed in military tactics. (full context)
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Washington first meets Henry Knox in July 1775, and he’s impressed with Knox’s intelligence. In the fall, Knox suggests that... (full context)
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As Knox is leading his men out to Fort Ticonderoga, the weather gets colder. Washington realizes that... (full context)
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...to show little motivation. Meanwhile, there’s no news from the expedition to Quebec, nor from Knox’s expedition. In December, the Continental Congress changes its mind and gives the go-ahead for Washington... (full context)
Chapter 3: Dorchester Heights
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On January 18, Knox returns from Fort Ticonderoga, bringing good news: he’s brought back the cannons. Knox pulled the... (full context)
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...also cultivated relationships with exemplary leaders from New England (such as Nathanael Greene and Henry Knox) and no longer speaks ill of New Englanders as a result. Meanwhile, many prominent thinkers... (full context)
Chapter 4: The Lines are Drawn
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...one of the wealthiest American cities at the time. Many of the troops, including Henry Knox, are impressed with the residents’ luxurious lives. Other soldiers praise the beautiful buildings and statues... (full context)
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...build a second fort, Fort Constitution. As the months drag on, Nathanael Greene and Henry Knox become good friends, and both men’s wives join them in New York. On May 16,... (full context)
Chapter 6: Fortune Frowns
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...and stealing. There are rumors that Washington lacks the skills to lead effectively. However, Henry Knox’s loyalty to Washington never falters. Washington himself begins to question whether New York has become... (full context)
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On October 16, Washington holds another military council: John Sullivan, Lord Stirling, Mifflin, and Henry Knox are all present. Also present is Charles Lee, whom Washington has reappointed his second-in-command. (Washington... (full context)
Chapter 7: Darkest Hour
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...cannons have been transported safely across the Delaware, thanks to the careful planning of Henry Knox. By this point, the army is way behind schedule. The plan was to have made... (full context)
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...been involved in the Siege of Boston (Washington and Nathanael Greene) are still serving. Henry Knox also continues to fight for the American side until the end of the war. (full context)