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Recruits, 1808 circa (aquatint)
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Recruits, 1808 circa (aquatint)
5920207 Recruits, 1808 circa (aquatint) by Atkinson, John Augustus (1775-1831) (after); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Recruits, 1808 circa.
Coloured aquatint by John Hill after John Augustus Atkinson. Published by William Miller, London, 1 Jan 1808.
Recruiting parties were a common sight in villages and at country fairs during the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). Recruiting officers would persuade men to enlist with misleading tales of the glamour of army life, and the offer of a A bountyA. This was a large sum of money, supposedly paid to the new recruit when he enlisted. In fact most of it disappeared in various A deductionsA and the recruit was lucky to see any of it.); eNational Army Museum; English, out of copyright
Media ID 22567956
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
Civilian Recruit Recruiting Recruitment Tavern
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The captivating aquatint print titled "Recruits, 1808 circa" by John Augustus Atkinson takes us back to a significant era in history - the Napoleonic Wars. This vividly colored artwork, reproduced by John Hill and published by William Miller in London, offers a glimpse into the recruitment process during those tumultuous times. In this scene, we witness a bustling village square where a recruiting party has set up camp. The air is filled with anticipation as soldiers and civilians gather around the tavern building. The artist skillfully captures the contrasting emotions on display - from eager young men enticed by tales of glory to skeptical onlookers questioning the promises made. Recruiting officers were known for their persuasive tactics, often embellishing army life's glamour and offering enticing bounties to potential recruits. However, as history reveals, these promises were rarely fulfilled. Most of the bounty money disappeared due to various deductions before reaching its intended recipients. This artwork serves as an important reminder of how society was impacted during times of war and highlights the vulnerability of individuals caught up in such circumstances. It also sheds light on the power dynamics between authority figures and ordinary citizens. As we gaze upon this historical gem captured through Atkinson's artistic lens, let us reflect on both the sacrifices made by those who answered their country's call and the harsh realities they faced once enlisted.
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