Ethan Allen

Born in Litchfield, Connecticut, Ethan Allen became one of the best-known figures on the northern frontier in the years leading up to the American Revolution. He was closely tied to the New Hampshire Grants dispute and emerged as a leader of the Green Mountain Boys, the militia that defended local settlers' land claims.

In 1775, he gained lasting fame for the capture of Fort Ticonderoga, a dramatic early Patriot victory. Later that same year he was captured during an attempt on Montreal and spent years as a prisoner before being exchanged. After his release, he remained active in Vermont public life as the region pushed toward recognition and statehood.

Allen was also a writer as well as a soldier and political leader. His published works, including an account of his captivity and later religious and political writings, show a forceful, argumentative voice that matched his public reputation.