Michael Rudolph Feels the Wrath of Mad Anthony Wayne
Michael Rudolph was a decorated veteran of the Revolutionary War who rose to simultaneously hold the ranks of Adjutant General and Inspector General in the US Army.
However, during the Northwest Indian War, Rudolph began abusing his power and was set straight by Commander-in-Chief Anthony Wayne.
Michael Rudolph
Michael Rudolph joined the Continental Army at just 20 years old.
Rudolph signed on with Lee’s Legion, a cavalry unit that fought under the leadership of Henry ‘Light Horse Harry’ Lee.
Michael quickly earned the trust of his commander, notably leading a small band of men to break up a counterfeit operation which was printing thousands of dollars of fake Continentals.
Battle of Paulus Hook
Rudolph earned his greatest distinction during the Battle of Paulus Hook, a surprise nighttime raid on the British in New Jersey.
Along with a Lieutenant McCallister, Rudolph forded a canal with his soldiers and led the attack on the enemy.
As a result of his heroics, he was especially thanked by Congress (along with only George Washington, Lord Sterling, Lee and McCallister) for his bravery.
Adjutant and Inspector General
Michael remained with the Continental Army through the end of the war.
He returned to private life for several years, but was a soldier at heart.
After signing back with the army, Rudolph quickly rose through the ranks.
By 1793, he was appointed as both Adjutant General and Inspector General of the United States Army.
Abusing Power
Rudolph’s tenure as Adjutant and Inspector General would last less than five months.
He travelled to the Ohio Valley, where the Northwest Indian War was in full swing.
While in control of Fort Hamilton, Michael turned out to be a harsh commander and many men attempted to desert. Those who were captured suffered extremely severe punishments, including running the gauntlet and death.
Set Straight by Mad Anthony
After General Anthony Wayne was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the army by President Washington, he decided to put a stop to Rudolph’s power trip.
Michael had put some soldiers to death who’s case was on appeal and Wayne demanded his resignation.
Rudolph obeyed and left the army.
He went to sail for France, apparently hoping to fight in the French Revolution. Unfortunately, the ship was lost at sea, and Michael Rudolph’s life story came to a quick, mysterious end.
Want to read about more Founders who participated in the NORTHWEST INDIAN WAR?
Great! Check out these articles:
Richard Butler Treats with the Native Americans
James Wilkinson - America’s Favorite Double Agent
Arthur St. Clair’s Defeat - Governing the Northwest Indian War
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