The Whites of Their Eyes: The Life of Revolutionary War Hero Israel Putnam from Rogers’ Rangers to Bunker Hill

Historian Shay (Hunter Liggett) offers a diligent account of a consequential yet somewhat obscure Revolutionary War leader. Born near Salem, Mass., Israel Putnam (1718–1790) moved to Connecticut in his 20s, where he became a folk hero for venturing into a cave to kill what was believed to be that colony’s last wild wolf. For 15 years, he lived a tranquil life as a successful farmer, but that changed in 1755 when he volunteered to fight in the French and Indian War. He eventually joined up with Capt. Robert Rogers, leader of the Rangers, an irregular fighting force used mostly as scouts. When the conflict ended, Putnam returned to his farm. In 1766, he joined Connecticut’s Sons of Liberty and began organizing forces for a potential rebellion against the British. He enlisted in what became the Continental Army after hostilities commenced, and, during 1775’s Battle of Bunker Hill, reportedly gave the legendary order, “Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes.” As the war progressed, Putnam became known for his daring and willingness to risk his life with his troops. With its detailed reconstructions of Putnam’s battles, this is more military history than social history (though Shay does not neglect to mention that Putnam was a slaveholder). It will appeal to Revolutionary War buffs interested in how the war was prosecuted. (Oct.)