I've just started learning about the details of the Taiping Rebellion in China and I have become enamoured by the character of Frederick Townsend Ward. He was one of two American men who ended up leading one of the most succesful units in the empiral Chinese army known as "The Ever Victorious Army" which Ward had started. He did in 1862 after an abdomenal wound and his command was taken over by the second American mentioned above named Henry Andres Burgevine who mantioned the command for nine months. Ward's actions are considered crucial in winning the Empire's victory over the rebels. Unlike some military leaders of his time he understood that the frontal assault was of limited value against disciplined long range firepower which helped him in his successes. As well he gained alot of military experience before joining the Empires army by serving in the French army during the Crimean war and working as a filibuster with William Walker. Yes THAT WILLIAM WALKER! Also Ward learned to avoid some of Walker's mistakes which included having a reputation for being “excessively vain, weak minded and ambitious…his weakness renders him cruel…”. As well he earned alot of respect from his men in China by being ahead of his time and treating the men of all races and origins equaly. He also took a native chinese women as his wife and wished for his loyal Filipino subordinate Macanaya to succeed him as the commander, but the imperial Chinese court selected Burgevine instead.
I recently ordered a biography on him titled "Devil Soldier: The Story of Frederick Townsend Ward" so that I can learn more.
Now to get to the point. In this thread I'd like to ask that those with more knowledge on the subject of the Taiping Rebellion and Ward himself give their comments on what Ward and his subordinates lives might have been like if he had not been killed as he was in OTL.
I recently ordered a biography on him titled "Devil Soldier: The Story of Frederick Townsend Ward" so that I can learn more.
Now to get to the point. In this thread I'd like to ask that those with more knowledge on the subject of the Taiping Rebellion and Ward himself give their comments on what Ward and his subordinates lives might have been like if he had not been killed as he was in OTL.
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