The Military Journals of two Private Soldiers, 1758-1775

Abraham Tomlinson is acknowledged in the annals of American literature for his diligent work as an editor and compiler, most notably for 'The Military Journals of Two Private Soldiers, 1758-1775'. Not much is broadly known about his biography, including his birth and death dates, which often remains the case with compilers and editors of historical documents. Nevertheless, Tomlinson's contribution lies in his meticulous preservation of firsthand accounts from the era that helped shape the United States. In 'The Military Journals of Two Private Soldiers,' Tomlinson brought to light the personal narratives of two anonymous soldiers, providing a vivid glimpse into the everyday experiences of common men who played their part in the history-making events leading up to and during the American Revolution. The work is notable for its authenticity and the raw perspective it offers on military life of the period, devoid of the romanticism often associated with later accounts. His editorial choices and annotations speak to a commitment to historical fidelity and provide readers with a valuable resource for understanding the period's military and social history. Tomlinson's role as an editor of such materials places him among the ranks of early American historical preservationists, ensuring that the voices of the past remain audible to future generations. As such, his contribution extends beyond the realm of literature and into the fields of history and anthropology, emphasizing the role of archival work in the literary canon.