The Hated Cage: An American Tragedy in Britain's Most Terrifying Prison

In 1812, during the War of 1812, British redcoats torch the White House and six thousand American sailors are imprisoned in Dartmoor, the world's largest prisoner-of-war camp. Despite the harsh conditions, the prisoners form extraordinary communities and thrive, teaching each other foreign languages, science, and putting on plays and boxing matches. The book explores the communities and the terrible massacre that destroyed them.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Oneworld Publications

In the year 1812, Britain and America found themselves engaged in a fierce war, with British redcoats setting fire to the White House and six thousand American sailors being held captive in the world's largest prisoner-of-war camp, Dartmoor. This diverse group of individuals, ranging in age from thirteen to adulthood, found themselves confined within the imposing granite walls of Dartmoor, known as the "hated cage." The prison was intentionally designed to break its inmates physically and mentally, but despite the harsh conditions, life managed to thrive.

Prisoners taught each other foreign languages and sciences, organized plays and boxing matches, and engaged in daring escape attempts. They lived out every prison-break cliché imaginable, from hiding tunnel entrances to developing disguises that could pass scrutiny.

The Hated Cage, a meticulously researched work, delves into the extraordinary communities these men formed within the prison and the tragic massacre that ultimately destroyed these worlds. Author Marcus Rediker has crafted a gripping, dynamic, and vividly written account of history that brings to life the experiences of these captive sailors and their resilient communities.

Weight: 378g
Dimension: 197 x 130 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780861542215