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Recruiting leaflet for the 71st (Fraser's) Highlanders

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Recruiting leaflet for the 71st (Fraser's) Highlanders
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The British Army was anxious to raise men to fight in North America by the late 18th century. Ensign Thomas Hamilton was recruiting for Fraser's Highlanders in Dundee, probably at a tavern. Drink was often used to persuade the reluctant.

Men were enlisted until 'the end of three years, that is in 1779, or of the present American rebellion.' The War of Independence was won by America in 1778, so the men would have been discharged early - if they survived.

The leaflet encourages men to leave a 'cruel or harsh task-master' or a cross wife, words which were echoed in the song, 'Twa recruiting sergeants'.

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