Desertions were a problem for the Continental Army

Hardships due to poor or non-existent food and clothing, infrequent paydays, rampant monetary inflation, fear of combat, homesickness, family problems, crowded unsanitary life in camp, and rampant disease were all contributing factors to soldiers refusing to join or abruptly leaving military life.

 

Soldiers could be executed for desertion, often depending on when the man deserted, whether he came back, and what he did while he was gone.

 

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